Hormonal
A decreased testosterone-to-cortisol (T/C) ratio and elevated creatine kinase (CK) activity are biochemical markers indicating a catabolic state and muscle damage associated with overreaching.
Monitoring hormonal balance can help identify when you are overtrained. A drop in the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio and high creatine kinase levels indicate your body is in a catabolic (breaking down) state. If you have access to blood testing, these markers can guide your recovery needs. If not, focus on subjective feelings of fatigue and performance drops as proxies.
The significant reduction in the T/C ratio and elevated CK activity following the 6-week overload training period suggests that the players were in a catabolic state with elevated levels of muscle damage when the MSFT performance was reduced.
Why this rating
Consistent with previous literature cited, though limited by small sample size.
Source
Changes in Selected Biochemical, Muscular Strength, Power, and Endurance Measures during Deliberate Overreaching and Tapering in Rugby League Players
Aaron J. Coutts et al. · International Journal of Sports Medicine · 2007
DOI 10.1055/s-2006-924145
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