Stress recovery during an ocean boat race

The aim was to study the effects of intense and sustained stress associated with a several months long endurance test with special emphasis on the biology of recovery. Biological stress markers of ‘catabolism’ (cortisol in saliva and HbA 1c in blood) and ‘anabolism’ (testosterone in saliva) were followed in crewmembers during a 9‐month around the world sailing race. During sustained mental stress the diurnal cortisol curve was flattened, HbA 1c was at the upper part of the normal range and testosterone levels were low. In the latter part of the race the crew mastered the situation and the stress markers were normalized. Our longitudinal approach disclosed a striking shift in the profile of stress markers from a ‘catabolic’ to an ‘anabolic’ state, corresponding to a decline of mental stress.