The

level of significance was set at p < 0.05. The data were analyzed using SPSS, PC program, version 13 (SPSS Inc., IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). No significant differences were revealed by the ANOVA in the estimated body composition MG-132 manufacturer indicators. Table 3 presents the mean values of these variables. The statistical analyses for testosterone demonstrated differences (F(3, 42) = 4.267, p < 0.05) between the measurements. The concentration of testosterone increased at the end of the re-building period (11.6%), and remained at the same level (12.1%) in the next measurement (mid-season). However, at the end of the season, the concentration of the hormone decreased to below the initial levels (−1.5%). A statistical difference was observed between the measurement at the end of the re-building period and at the mid-season with that at the end of the season (p < 0.05) ( Table 4). Significant differences in the cortisol concentration were found by ANOVA (F(3, 42) = 7.782, p < 0.001). find more The cortisol concentration decreased at the end of re-building period (−5.3%), then increased during mid-season (23.4%), and at the end of the season, the concentration reached the initial values (2.8%). The mid-season value of the hormone differed significantly from the first two measurements (pre and post re-building period) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the measurement at

the end of the season differed from that of the mid-season (p < 0.05) ( Table 4). T/C ratio also showed significant changes along the season (F(3, 42) = 6.147, p = 0.001). The initial value increased by 12.1% at the end of the re-building period (0.37 ± 0.03). At the mid-season measurement, the ratio

decreased by 15.2% compared with the initial measurement (p < 0.05). Finally, at the end of the season, the value of the from ratio was 9.1% less than the first measurement ( Table 4). It is important to note that the major aim of the team was to remain in this division. At the end of the season, the players had accomplished this purpose. The secretion of cortisol is related to stress. As mentioned above, the exercise functioned as a stress factor, and the amount of hormone produced depends positively on the intensity and duration of exercise.27 In this study, the largest change in the hormone was an increase of cortisol concentration (23.4%) in the mid-season. The increased concentration of cortisol in the mid-season in team sports has been reported by other researchers.28 When athletes follow a properly designed exercise program, the cortisol that is produced after each workout is removed from the body within 24 h. Therefore, the changes in the concentration of cortisol may be associated with stress accumulated during the season.29 In this study, according to the concentration of cortisol, the players experienced a time point during the season with intense stress.