Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
56-66
Received:
18 March 2026
Accepted:
28 March 2026
Published:
19 May 2026
Abstract: Background: Sex-based biological differences significantly influence athletic performance and training adaptations, yet female athletes are substantially underrepresented in sports science research (80–90% of studies focus on males). Arab female athletes are virtually absent from the literature despite unique genetic, environmental, and cultural contexts that may modulate training responses. Objective: To investigate hormonal disparities (estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, IGF-1, T3, leptin) and their effects on training adaptation responses among elite Arab female athletes, comparing endurance versus strength sports, while examining modulation by genetic factors (ACTN3 R577X polymorphism) and health challenges (menstrual dysfunction, low energy availability). Methods: A 12-month longitudinal comparative experimental design will recruit 72 elite Arab female athletes (18–35 years) from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Tunisia, equally divided into endurance (long-distance running/swimming) and strength (weightlifting/powerlifting) groups. Measurements include monthly hormonal assays (ELISA/LC-MS), physiological adaptations (VO2max, 1RM, RMR), genetic analysis (ACTN3 PCR-RFLP), energy availability (7-day dietary records, LEAF-Q), and menstrual function monitoring. Statistical analyses include mixed ANOVA, ANCOVA, multiple regression, and Cohen's d effect sizes. Expected Results: Endurance athletes will show 7–9% VO2max improvement associated with estradiol fluctuations (r>0.5); strength athletes will demonstrate 15–20% 1RM increase and 8–9% type II fiber hypertrophy with modest testosterone contributions (r<0.3). Menstrual dysfunction (projected 55% in endurance vs. 35% in strength) and low energy availability (EA<30 kcal/kg FFM/day) will reduce RMR by 6–7% and blunt training adaptations by 30–50%. ACTN3 XX genotype (15–25% frequency) will be associated with enhanced strength gains (2–4% additional 1RM) but increased muscle injury risk (OR 5.9–7.9). Conclusion: This first comprehensive biological study of Arab female athletes will establish evidence-based, culturally-adapted training and nutritional guidelines, addressing the critical research gap in female sports science.
Abstract: Background: Sex-based biological differences significantly influence athletic performance and training adaptations, yet female athletes are substantially underrepresented in sports science research (80–90% of studies focus on males). Arab female athletes are virtually absent from the literature despite unique genetic, environmental, and cultural co...
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