Effect of competition on stress salivary biomarkers in elite and amateur female adolescent inline skaters

Abstract

Summary Objectives The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of competition on stress salivary biomarkers alpha-amylase (sAA), cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in elite or amateur female adolescent inline skaters. Material and methods Eighteen female adolescent inline skaters (9 elites and 9 amateurs) who have competed in official skate competitions, participated in the present study. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected during their rest day, 1 h and immediately before competition (pre-competition), as well as immediately and 1 h after the competition (post-competition). Free cortisol, sAA, DHEA, and total protein concentrations were assessed. Results Cortisol concentrations of elite group significantly increased 1 h before and pre-competition compared to rest day (P 0.05). The sAA concentrations were significantly higher in the elite group at 1 h before and at pre-competition compared to the rest day (P 0.05). The ratio of DHEA to cortisol exhibited significant difference among the five measurement stages in the amateur group (P 0.05). The total protein concentrations of the elite group increased significantly during three stages, pre-competition, post-competition, and 1 h after competition compared to rest day (P Conclusion Our results confirmed that the optimum increase in adrenal activity occurs before a competition, which can improve athletic performance. However, a similar increase after a competition suggests the body's attempt to maintain homeostasis. Therefore, anticipatory stress indicates that athletes need to relax before a competition.