Summary:
- The article examines the physiological role of cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, in response to the physical stress of endurance running.
- It details the mechanisms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and how chronic elevation of cortisol due to overtraining can lead to negative health outcomes, such as muscle breakdown, suppressed immune function, and metabolic dysregulation.
- The piece provides evidence-based strategies for athletes to balance training loads with adequate recovery to maintain hormonal homeostasis and prevent "overtraining syndrome."