Impact of the sympatho-adrenal system on psycho-emotional and autonomic responses in athletes during the competitive season

The study of the influence of the sympathoadrenal system (SAS) on the psycho-emotional state of athletes during the competitive period is a relevant issue in sports physiology and psychophysiology. The purpose of the study was to assess the relationships between SAS activity, heart rate variability indicators, hormonal stress markers, psycho-emotional state, and competitive performance of strength-oriented student-athletes under simulated competitive conditions. Methods and research design. The study involved 20 student-athletes aged 18–25 years specializing in strength sports. Assessments were conducted at three time points: 48 hours before the competition, immediately before performance, and 30 minutes after its completion. Functional diagnostic methods were applied, including the assessment of salivary α-amylase and cortisol levels, analysis of heart rate variability, measurement of heart rate and arterial blood pressure, as well as psychometric questionnaires (POMS and STAI). Athletic performance was evaluated using objective strength indicators. Research results and conclusions. The findings revealed pronounced pre-competitive activation of the SAS, a decrease in heart rate variability indices, and an increase in anxiety levels. Faster recovery of SAS and HRV parameters was associated with higher competitive performance. Adequate regulation of the sympathoadrenal system is an important factor in maintaining an optimal psycho-emotional state and enhancing competitive effectiveness in athletes. The data obtained allow us to consider the CAC and HRV markers as potential tools for individual monitoring of athletes' functional readiness, requiring further validation in studies with an expanded sample.