Strength, power, and aerobic capacity of transgender athletes
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Strength, power, and aerobic capacity of transgender athletes: a follow-up study
IRAS ID
352600
Contact name
Blair Hamilton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester Metropolitan University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
The integration of transgender athletes into their affirmed gender categories has become a key issue in sports, with governing bodies adopting diverse approaches. These range from self-identification policies to requiring testosterone suppression or restricting transgender women from competing in female categories. Transgender athletes often undergo gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) and may pursue surgeries to align their physical characteristics with their gender identity.
Our previous cross-sectional study examined laboratory metrics of strength, power, and V̇O2max in transgender athletes. It found transgender women athletes had lower performance than cisgender women in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁), forced vital capacity ratio (FVC), jump height, and relative V̇O2max. Conversely, they exhibited higher absolute handgrip strength, though no differences were observed when adjusted for fat-free mass or hand size. The study was limited by its design, which precluded analysis of changes over time or causation, leaving unanswered questions about how GAHT influences athletic performance longitudinally.
This follow-up study will use the same methodology as the initial research (Registration DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/NVTW6; Protocol DOI: 10.51224/SRXIV.188) to track 10 transgender men and 10 transgender women athletes over time. By collecting repeat data, we aim to determine whether performance metrics remain stable, improve, or decline with continued GAHT. Additionally, we will compare transgender athletes with cisgender counterparts matched for age and BMI to evaluate GAHT’s relative impact.
This longitudinal approach addresses key gaps, offering insights into the dynamic effects of GAHT on athletic performance and physiology. These findings will help refine policies and practices in sports to ensure fairness and inclusion.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/SW/0046
Date of REC Opinion
9 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion