This study examined the effects of a "taper" on urinary free cortisol and serum testosterone in eight (M = 6; F = 2) runners. Following heavy training, a taper period of reduced volume but intensity maintenance was performed. It was found that 7 of 8 Ss had reduced cortisol values post-taper. In 4 of 6 males "biologically" significant increases in serum testosterone levels were exhibited. It was concluded that urinary cortisol is a good marker for monitoring physiological changes after heavy training and tapering in elite runners and that a taper helps reverse the hormonal changes experienced from strenuous training. The observation of this factor is better if data and frequent measures are evaluated on an individual basis. Implication: While cortisol eventually exhibits change in most runners after a taper it is not sensitive enough to indicate daily responding during a taper, something which needs to be known to enhance coaching decisions during that critical time. Cortisol is not a universal marker for all sports. At present, it can be used for some runners. It should only be used after an individual has been evaluated and demonstrated that it is a valid marker.
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