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

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 1h before and pre-competition compared to rest day (P< 0.05) whereas no significant changes observed in amateur group (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). sAA concentrations of amateur group were significantly higher at pre-competition, post-competition, and 1 h after competition compared to the rest day (P < 0.05). DHEA levels of both groups markedly decreased 1 h after competition compared to the rest day (P < 0.05). No significant differences in DHEA concentrations were observed between the two groups (P> 0.05). The ratio of DHEA to cortisol exhibited significant difference among the five measurement stages in the amateur group (P < 0.05), whereas no significant changes in this ratio were observed in the elite 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 < 0.05). Additionally, the total protein concentrations at pre-competition and 1 h after competition were significantly higher in elite group (P < 0.05). 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. (C) 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.