Effects of Endurance Workouts on Thyroid Hormone Metabolism and Biochemical Markers in Athletes

Abstract

Objective: Exercises can create differences in the organism by affecting the hormonal system and hemostasis. Evaluation of hormonal changes along with physical activity, many factors such as physical and physiological state of athletes, environmental factors and nutritional status are effective and affect the performance. In this study, as a result of endurance workouts, chronic changes in athletes' thyroid hormone metabolism and biochemical markers were evaluated. Method: 16 male athletes formed the research group. The athletes participating in the study received endurance training for 60 minutes a day, three days a week for 12 weeks. Blood samples were taken from the athletes before the session and after the session. The levels of Thyroid hormones, iron, iron binding capacity, UIBC, erythrocyte, leukocyte and platelet were determined in blood samples. Data were considered by using SPSS statistical package software. Findings: A significant difference was observed in athletes' thyroid hormone values as a result of the training sessions: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) levels were detected to be statistically different in pre-post test (p <0,05). As a result of the applied workouts changes were observed in the erythrocyte, leukocyte and platelet values of the athletes, and a significant difference was seen in general (p <0,05). Results: Applied regular and long-term endurance training created differences in athletes' thyroid hormone metabolism and biochemical markers. It is thought that these findings will positively affect the fight against the stress experienced by athletes during their competitions and increase their performance.