Resources
Science & Education
The science behind sex
and athletic performance
Explore expert insights and educational resources to understand the impact of biological sex in sports.
“Biological sex is the single most important determinant of athletic performance that is known.”
Dr. Ross Tucker, PhD, Physiology
Make informed decisions about fairness in sport
Our goal is to provide clear, apolitical, and science-based information to help athletes, parents, coaches, and policymakers make informed decisions about fairness in women’s sports. Explore our resources, stay informed with our newsletter, social media, and join our network to support the integrity of women’s sports.
Understanding testosterone
Testosterone levels between males and females do not overlap without an underlying health condition. No female, regardless of PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), will have male levels of testosterone. The impacts of testosterone on male development begin in utero, continue through infancy, and explode during adolescence. Dr. Ross Tucker, PhD
Testosterone suppression studies
Males who suppress testosterone and use feminizing hormones do not mitigate male biological advantage. See this peer-reviewed medical journal article analyzing all 13 available studies at the time of publication. (Dr. Emma Hilton, PhD, Dr. Tommy Lundberg, PhD)
The latest study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicates that males retain significant strength and cardio-pulmonary benefits even 14 years after transition treatments (on avg, 20% advantage).
Debunking Myths on the Biology of Sex
Human sex is fundamentally binary and unchangeable, with two categories: male and female. Every human body develops around the formation of large gametes (ova) or small gametes (sperm). There is no way to reverse, reboot or undo these developmental pathways. Recognizing this binary nature is crucial for fair competition and equal opportunities for women in sports, ensuring that women are recognized as the champions they are.
Books
October 4, 2024
September 29, 2024
September 29, 2024
September 29, 2024
The Fight for Fairness in NCAA Division 1 VolleyBall with Macy Petty
Saving Women’s Swimming: Voices of Valor from the Roanoke College Women’s Swim Team
The Courage to Ride: Evie Edwards’ Stand for Fairness in Women’s Cycling
Defending Fair Play: The Legal Battle Against NCAA’s Gender Policies
Sex differences and physiology
Additional resources
The landscape of sex-differential transcriptome and its consequent selection in human adults
Sex-based differences in skeletal muscle kinetics and fiber-type composition
Sex-based differences in physiology: what should we teach in the medical curriculum?
A summary of the science from our ICONS Rowing Team. Fairness for Females: Sex Drives Performance.
