Effects of the Occlusal Thickness of Mouthpieces on Salivary Cortisol during Resistance Strength Training

Abstract

Background: When worn during exercise, it has been suggested that a mouthpiece may have a benefit to the athlete by increasing strength and endurance. Specifically, the use of a mouthpiece during resistance strength training has been shown to result in reduced post-exercise concentrations of cortisol when compared to no mouthpiece. The purpose of this pilot study is to determine if the thickness of the biting (occlusal) surface of the mouthpiece has an effect on the reduction of postexercise cortisol concentrations.