The myth of "unfair advantage"? New analysis demolishes critics' arguments and shows that trans women can be comparable to cis athletes in sport
The debate on the participation of transgender athletes in women's categories has been one of the most debated topics at the intersection of sport, politics and human rights in recent years. A new pooled analysis of scientific studies now suggests that trans women may not show a physical advantage over cisgender female athletes after a period of hormone treatment.
The research was prepared by researchers in Brazil who analysed approximately fifty available studies focusing on the physical fitness and physical parameters of transgender people. The total sample included 6,485 people between the ages of 14 and 41 - specifically, 2,943 trans women, 2,309 trans men, 568 cis women and 665 cis men. The aim was to compare changes in physical performance and body composition over the course of hormone replacement therapy.
Strength and endurance at comparable levels
According to the results of the analysis, trans women achieved similar levels of strength and physical fitness as cisgender women after several months of hormone therapy. The researchers did not observe significant differences in upper and lower body strength, nor in maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max), which is one of the key indicators of endurance and overall fitness.
The study also shows that although trans women may still have slightly higher muscle mass than cis women after one to three years of hormone therapy, their body composition changes significantly. Compared to cis men, they show a higher proportion of body fat, which may play a role in athletic performance and recovery.
Data for a sensitive social debate
The issue of fair rules for trans athletes' participation has become a point of contention among sports federations, politicians and athletes themselves in recent years. While some organisations are introducing stricter regulations or creating new categories, other experts point to the need to base decisions on current scientific knowledge.
The authors of the analysis stress that their results do not represent a definitive answer, but rather another piece in a complex mosaic. "Continued research on the physiological and psychosocial trajectories of transgender athletes with diverse demographics and clinical characteristics remains essential to developing equitable frameworks that balance fairness, inclusion, and scientific rigor," the researchers state in their report.
Research as a basis for future rules
The new analysis thus comes at a time when the sporting world is seeking a balance between a level playing field and respect for gender identity. Experts agree that without long-term data and broader research across different sports and age groups, the debate will continue. However, it is studies such as these that can help move the debate from emotion to fact and contribute to the creation of rules that are both inclusive and evidence-based.
