Mahood, N. V., Hazzard, M. P., Podolin, D. A., & Kenefick, R. W. (2002). Physiological and psychological responses to a collegiate cross-country ski season. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 34(5), Supplement abstract 1103.

Collegiate skiers (M = 8; F = 4) were tested before a six-month ski season and at three training phases; dry-land, early-season competition, and late-season competition. Two groups were designated; those who maintained or improved competitive performances, and those who declined in competitive performances.

The two groups were no different across the season in serum testosterone, cortisol, creatine kinase, lean body mass, or percent body fat. Differences in mood state were evident at the start and end of the season, with the poorer performing group being more negative.

Implication. A negative approach to a sport is one indicator that performances are not likely to improve across an extended season of training.

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