The psycho-hormonal influence of anaerobic fatigue on semi-professional female soccer players

Globally it is assumed that high-intensity activities are the general cause of fatigue experienced during a soccer match. However, little is known about the hormonal and psychological effects of fatigue due to these activities on semi-professional female soccer players. Forty-seven female players (22.0 ± 2.7 y) from a tertiary education institution volunteered for the study. Their cortisol values (saliva sample), anxiety [Spielberger State-trait anxiety inventory questionnaire (STAI)] and mood scores [Incredible Short Profile of Mood states questionnaire (ISP)] were taken an hour and immediately prior to, and 15 min after an anaerobic fatiguing test (AFT). During the AFT, subjects completed a 5-m multiple shuttle run test and their HRmax, blood lactate (BLa−) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) taken afterwards. Anxiety scores were divided into three categories and mood scores into the Total Mood Disturbances (TMD) and six subscales. The results indicated an increase in cortisol, psychological fatigue and TMD from baseline and/or pre- to post-AFT (p < 0.05). Vigour and confusion decreased from baseline and/or pre- to post-AFT (p < 0.05). A relationship was seen between state-anxiety and TMD (r ≥ 0.63, p < 0.05) at all three time points, as well as between state-anxiety and HRmax (r = 0.37, p = 0.03). Cortisol and RPE (r = − 0.34, p = 0.03) demonstrated a correlation post-AFT. This is the first study to evaluate the effects of anaerobic fatigue on the hormonal and psychological states of female soccer players. The results suggest that an AFT can be perceived as a physiological and psychological stressor by female players, hence has the ability to influence performance. Altering a player's awareness and anaerobic fitness level might therefore influence both the hormonal and psychological consequences of the stressor, subsequently reducing the experience of fatigue and thereby enhancing performance.