Female Athlete Physiology: Addressing Gaps in Injury Prevention, Training, and Recovery

The physiology of female athletes presents unique challenges in terms of injury prevention, training, and recovery. Although more women are getting involved in sports, the majority of studies are male-centered, leaving a significant gap in information about assessing the needs of female athletes. Hormonal changes, especially during the menstrual cycle, also affect performance and risk for injury and recovery processes, with female players much more prone to injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament ruptures and stress fractures. In addition, relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) is associated with poor muscle recovery, nutrient deficits, and a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries. This review fills the existing gaps in the current literature by highlighting the need for sex-specific studies, individualized training programs, and nutrition practices. The absence of high-quality randomized controlled trials and an insufficient number of women in sports science research cannot be allowed. Research should personalize interventions that take into account hormonal changes and enhance long-term performance and recovery among female athletes.