Sex Differences in Athletic Performance: Perspectives on Transgender Athletes

Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2023 Jul 1;51(3):85-95. doi: 10.1249/JES.0000000000000317. Epub 2023 Apr 14.

Abstract

Sex hormone concentrations, particularly testosterone, are primary determinants of sex-based differences in athletic and sports performance, and this relationship may inform fair competition and participation for athletes. This article describes the sex-based dichotomy in testosterone and the implications for sex-based differences in individual sports performance, including factors that relate to athletic performance for transgender individuals, and areas of future investigation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Athletes
  • Athletic Performance*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Testosterone
  • Transgender Persons*

Substances

  • Testosterone