Hormonal Response to Exercise

The importance of hormones in regulating physiological functions and processes has intrigued scientists since they were first characterized by Baylis and Starling in 1904 (1). Research advances in endocrinology have led to an improved understanding of the intricate and diverse functions of the endocrine system. In addition, advances in technology and analytical procedures have facilitated the convenience and accuracy of hormone measurements. These advancements have facilitated the proliferation of endocrine research in exercise and sport science over the past 30 years (Fig. 1). This relative explosion in research related to exercise endocrinology has contributed greatly to the understanding of the physiological consequences of exercise and physical training. Nevertheless, the emerging research is often inconsistent, contradictory, and difficult to interpret. In some cases, research discrepancies may be explained by methodological or analytical inconsistencies.