Performance

Performance Tests help athletes and active adults monitor the biology behind energy, recovery, and training adaptation. These labs look at oxygen-carrying capacity, hydration and electrolytes, muscle load, thyroid status, and long-term cardiometabolic health. A smart approach starts with a core panel—CBC, CMP/electrolytes, lipid panel, and A1c or fasting glucose—then adds targeted markers such as ferritin/ironvitamin DTSHcreatine kinase (CK)hs-CRPmagnesium, and B12/folate based on your goals and symptoms.

Use your results to fine-tune fueling, recovery, and training blocks with a clinician or sports dietitian. Lab results support screeningdiagnosis when appropriate, and monitoring, but they do not replace a medical exam, imaging, or a sports-medicine evaluation—especially if you have chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or injury.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Energy & stamina: persistent fatigue, heavy legs, slower splits, plateau

  • Recovery strain: lingering soreness, frequent “post-viral” dips, poor sleep recovery

  • Hydration & heat: cramps, dizziness, headaches, GI issues during long sessions or hot/humid conditions

  • Bone & soft tissue: stress-reaction concerns, frequent strains or tendon pain

  • Women’s health & REDs: cycle changes, low energy availability, iron concerns

  • Training checkpoints: pre-season baseline, mid-block tune-up, post-illness return, altitude or heat camps

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Screen for fixable issues that limit performance (iron deficiency, low vitamin D, electrolyte imbalance).

  • Stratify risk for cardiometabolic health (lipids, glucose/A1c) and overuse strain (CK, hs-CRP trends).

  • Monitor trends across training cycles to guide nutrition, recovery, and follow-up.

What testing cannot do

  • Explain every cause of fatigue or pain without clinical context.

  • Replace ECG/cardiology work-ups, imaging, or sports-medicine exams when indicated.

  • Guarantee performance outcomes—labs inform decisions; training, sleep, and nutrition still matter.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • CBC (Complete Blood Count): red/white cells and platelets; screens for anemia or infection. Training status and hydration shift hemoglobin/hematocrit.

  • Iron Studies (Ferritin, Iron, TIBC/Transferrin, % Saturation): iron stores and transport for oxygen delivery. Ferritin rises with inflammation—pair with symptoms and hs-CRP.

  • CMP/Electrolytes: sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, BUN/creatinine, glucose, AST/ALT, albumin. Dehydration and hard sessions can affect values.

  • Lipids (± ApoB, Lp[a]): LDL/HDL/triglycerides; ApoB refines risk; Lp(a) is inherited.

  • Glucose Control (Fasting Glucose, A1c ± Insulin): day-to-day and 3-month glucose; informs fueling and recovery.

  • Thyroid (TSH ± Free T4/T3): energy, thermoregulation, mood. High-dose biotin can interfere—hold if advised.

  • Vitamin D (25-OH): bone and muscle function; often low in indoor/winter training.

  • Vitamin B12 & Folate: red cell production and nerve health.

  • Magnesium (± RBC Mg) & Phosphorus: muscle contraction, cramping; sweat losses matter.

  • Creatine Kinase (CK): skeletal muscle breakdown; trend on rest days.

  • hs-CRP (high-sensitivity CRP): low-grade inflammation; trend over time, don’t chase single spikes.

  • Optional, case-by-case: ApoB/Lp(a) for family risk; urine albumin-creatinine in high-risk settings; hormones(e.g., testosterone/estradiol) per clinician guidance.

Quick View: Panels & Uses

Group Why it matters Notes
CBC + Iron Studies Oxygen delivery; iron stores Add ferritin; avoid testing during acute illness
CMP + Electrolytes Hydration, kidney/liver context Schedule after an easy/rest day
Lipids + A1c/Glucose Long-term heart & fuel status Consider ApoB/Lp(a) for family risk
Thyroid (TSH ± FT4/T3) Energy, thermoregulation Check biotin interference guidance
Vitamin D, B12, Folate Bone, muscle, nerve support Season, sun, and diet influence levels
CK + hs-CRP Muscle load & inflammation Draw on rest days; trend values

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Pick your starting set: most begin with CBC, CMP, Lipids, A1c or Fasting Glucose, plus Ferritin/Iron and Vitamin D.

  2. Add goal-based tests: TSHCKhs-CRPMagnesiumB12/Folate; consider ApoB/Lp(a) for family or personal risk.

  3. Time your draw: aim for a rest or easy day (24–48 hours after hard training) and follow any fasting instructions.

  4. Get results securely: most post within a few days.

  5. Plan next steps: review with your clinician or sports RD to refine fueling, recovery, and follow-up.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Trends beat single values: compare to your baseline and training log.

  • Account for timing: intense sessions can raise CK and liver enzymes and shift electrolytes and hematocrit.

  • Ferritin with context: pair with CBC and hs-CRP; ferritin may look “normal” despite low stores during inflammation.

  • Out-of-range findings need clinician review—avoid self-treating with high-dose supplements.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • General performance baseline: CBC • Ferritin/Iron Panel • CMP/Electrolytes • Lipid Panel • A1c or Fasting Glucose • Vitamin D • TSH

  • Recovery check (in-season): CK • hs-CRP • CMP/Electrolytes • Ferritin (if symptoms)

  • Strength/Power emphasis: CMP/Electrolytes • CK • Vitamin D • Magnesium • Lipids

  • Women’s health / REDs focus: CBC • Ferritin/Iron • Vitamin D • B12/Folate • TSH • CMP; discuss cycle timing with your clinician

  • Altitude or heat training: CBC/hemoglobin trend • CMP/Electrolytes • Ferritin/Iron • CK on rest days

FAQs

Do I need to fast?
Follow your order instructions. Fasting is common for lipids and glucose/insulin.

When should I schedule the blood draw?
On a rest day or at least 24–48 hours after a hard session to avoid CK and enzyme spikes.

Can supplements affect results?
Yes. Biotin can interfere with some thyroid assays; high-dose iron or vitamin D skews levels. Follow any holds listed on your order.

Are these anti-doping tests?
No. These labs support health and performance; anti-doping testing is handled by sport governing bodies.

How often should I repeat labs?
Common checkpoints are pre-seasonmid-season, and post-season, or after illness/injury. Your clinician may tailor timing to your load and prior results.

Should I test hormones?
Hormone testing (e.g., testosterone, estradiol) is case-by-case. Discuss goals, symptoms, and timing with your clinician.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Fitness & Performance Tests Hub

  • Fitness & Training Tests • Blueprint Fitness • Endurance Athlete Blood Test • Strength & Power Profile • Hydration & Electrolyte Tests • Women’s Health & REDs

  • Key Tests: CBC • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC/TSAT • CMP/Electrolytes • Lipid Panel (± ApoB, Lp[a]) • A1c/Fasting Glucose (± Insulin) • TSH (± Free T4/T3) • Vitamin D (25-OH) • Vitamin B12 • Folate • Magnesium (± RBC Mg) • CK • hs-CRP • Urine Albumin-Creatinine

References

American College of Sports Medicine — Athlete biomarker and monitoring recommendations.
International Olympic Committee — Consensus statements on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs).
American Heart Association — Cardiometabolic risk assessment guidance.
Endocrine Society — Laboratory testing considerations (e.g., biotin interference).
British Journal of Sports Medicine — Athlete blood profiling and monitoring consensus.
National Athletic Trainers’ Association — Pre-participation and in-season screening best practices.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Performance Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a core health and performance panel, add goal-based tests, schedule your draw on a rest day, and review results with your clinician or sports dietitian to tailor training, fueling, and recovery.

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Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Other, Urine, Varied
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

Blood, Urine
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist, Urine Collection

The Aldolase Test measures levels of aldolase, an enzyme involved in breaking down glucose for energy. Elevated levels may indicate muscle damage, muscular dystrophy, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, or certain liver diseases. Doctors use this blood test to help diagnose and monitor muscle disorders, evaluate unexplained weakness, and track treatment response. It is often ordered alongside CK and other enzyme tests for a complete evaluation of muscle health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Apolipoprotein A1 and B Test measures Apo A1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol, and Apo B, the primary protein in LDL and VLDL cholesterol. Together, these markers and the ApoB/A1 ratio provide a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk than standard lipid panels. High ApoB or low Apo A1 may signal heart disease, stroke, or atherosclerosis. Doctors use this test to evaluate cholesterol balance, monitor therapy, and guide prevention of cardiovascular conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Apo A1 and B Test, Apolipoprotein Evaluation Test

The Bilirubin Direct Test measures conjugated bilirubin in the blood to assess liver function and bile duct health. Elevated levels may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction, while low levels are generally normal. Doctors order this test for patients with jaundice, fatigue, or suspected liver disease. Results help diagnose and monitor liver disorders, guide treatment decisions, and evaluate overall hepatic and biliary health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Direct Bilirubin Test

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

Most Popular

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test measures very low levels of CRP in blood to evaluate inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP may indicate increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, or stroke even before symptoms appear. Doctors use this test along with cholesterol and other markers to assess overall heart health, guide prevention strategies, and monitor treatment. It also helps evaluate chronic inflammation and metabolic conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Cardiac CRP Test, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test

The Cardio IQ™ Lipoprotein Fractionation Ion Mobility Test separates and measures lipoprotein particles by size and concentration using ion mobility technology. It provides a detailed profile of LDL, HDL, and other subclasses, offering a clearer assessment of cardiovascular risk than standard cholesterol testing.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: LDL Particle Testing, LDL Subclass Test, LDL Fractionations Test

The NMR Lipoprotein Fractionation Test uses nuclear magnetic resonance to measure particle size and concentration of LDL, HDL, and VLDL cholesterol. Unlike a standard lipid panel, it provides detailed information on lipoprotein subfractions linked to cardiovascular risk. Doctors use this test to assess heart disease risk, guide cholesterol management, and monitor therapy effectiveness. It offers deeper insight into lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: NMR Test, LDL Particle Testing, LDL Subclass Test, LDL Fractionations Test

The CoQ10 Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of coenzyme Q10, a vital antioxidant involved in energy production within cells. CoQ10 supports heart health, muscle function, and protection against oxidative stress. This test helps detect deficiencies due to aging, poor diet, or certain medications, guiding supplementation and management of cardiovascular, metabolic, and overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw

Most Popular

The Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Test measures blood levels of CoQ10, a nutrient essential for energy production and antioxidant protection. Low levels may be linked to mitochondrial disorders, heart disease, or statin medication use. Doctors order this test for patients with fatigue, muscle weakness, or cardiovascular issues. Results help evaluate nutritional status, guide supplementation, and monitor treatment for metabolic and heart health conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Coenzyme Q10 Test

The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 

Most Popular

The Cortisol AM Test measures morning cortisol levels in blood to evaluate adrenal gland function and stress response. Cortisol peaks in the morning, making this test critical for detecting adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), Cushing’s syndrome, or other hormone imbalances. Doctors also use it to investigate fatigue, weight changes, or high blood pressure. This test provides important insight into endocrine health, metabolism, and long-term stress regulation.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Morning Cortisol Test

The Cortisol Total Test measures cortisol levels in blood to assess adrenal gland and pituitary function. Cortisol regulates stress response, metabolism, and immune health. Abnormal results may indicate Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, or other hormone disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, weakness, or high blood pressure and to monitor treatment. It provides essential insight into hormone balance and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Cortisol Blood Test

Most Popular

The DHEA Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test measures levels of DHEA-S, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, to evaluate adrenal function and hormone balance. It helps detect adrenal tumors, hyperplasia, or insufficiency and assess abnormal hair growth, infertility, or early/late puberty. Doctors also use it to investigate irregular menstrual cycles, monitor androgen disorders, and evaluate symptoms of hormone imbalance affecting reproductive and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: DHEA Sulfate Test, Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Test

The Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Test measures levels of DHT, a potent androgen derived from testosterone, to evaluate hormone balance. Abnormal results may indicate hair loss, prostate disorders, infertility, or hormonal imbalance. Doctors order this test for men and women with symptoms such as hair thinning, acne, irregular periods, or low libido. It is also used to monitor treatment for prostate disease or hormone therapy, providing insight into reproductive and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: DHT Test

Most Popular

The Estradiol (E2) Test measures levels of estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, to evaluate reproductive and hormonal health. It helps assess menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, menopause status, and estrogen-producing disorders. In men, it aids in diagnosing hormonal imbalances. Doctors use the estradiol test to monitor hormone therapy, ovarian function, and conditions affecting puberty, bone health, and overall endocrine balance.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: E2 Test, Estrogen 2 Test

The Estrogen Total Test measures all forms of estrogen in blood, including estradiol, estrone, and estriol, to assess reproductive and hormonal health. Abnormal levels may indicate menstrual irregularities, menopause status, infertility, or hormone-related disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate fertility, monitor hormone therapy, and investigate symptoms such as hot flashes, irregular cycles, or abnormal bleeding. It provides key insight into endocrine and reproductive function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Total Estrogen Test, Estrogen Serum Test

Most Popular

The Ferritin Test measures ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body, to evaluate iron levels and detect deficiency or overload. It helps diagnose anemia, iron deficiency, hemochromatosis, and chronic disease-related inflammation. Doctors often order the ferritin test to investigate fatigue, weakness, or unexplained symptoms. It is also used to monitor iron supplementation, treatment effectiveness, and overall iron metabolism health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Iron Storage Test

The Fibrinogen Activity Test measures how well fibrinogen, a key clotting protein, helps blood form clots. Low fibrinogen may indicate excessive bleeding, liver disease, or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), while high levels may signal inflammation or increased clotting risk. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained bleeding, monitor clotting disorders, or assess liver function. Results provide vital insight into coagulation health and treatment management.

Varied
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: Factor 1 Assay Test, Cardiac Fibrinogen Test, Clotting Factors Test

As an athlete, you are continuously striving to become the best version of yourself. Over time, you may have noticed that there are some things that you simply cannot do.

This doesn't mean that you have peaked as an athlete. It could be the result of hormone or nutritional deficiencies or inflammation in the body.

With an athlete blood test, you can reach this goal of becoming a better athlete. Continue reading to learn how these blood tests can help you to improve your performance as an athlete.

Traditional Blood Work Panels Can Only Do So Much

Having bloodwork done at your yearly physical is great and all, but it won't actually tell you much. With run-of-the-mill blood testing, you may be able to prevent certain training issues. However, it won't actually give you food or lifestyle recommendations that will help you become a better athlete over time.

What Can Athlete Blood Tests Tell You?

Biomarkers measured in athlete blood tests make it so that you can optimize human performance, and they are readily available to consumers at an affordable price through Ulta Lab Tests. With an athlete blood test, you can test for biomarkers that give you insight into nutrition, hormones, and performance. It can also track deficiencies that may be holding you back as an athlete.

A blood analysis  specific to athletes can look into:

  • Overall health
  • Risks of injury
  • Muscle status
  • Hydration 
  • Nutrition

With the analysis of these things, you can see the reactions that your body may be producing as a result of your athletic lifestyle. 

The best thing about these tests is that the comparisons are based on others who have the same athletic lifestyle as you do. These tests will be able to give you recommendations for:

  • Energy boosts
  • Sleep regulation
  • Possible injuries
  • Possible illnesses
  • Enhanced performance

Athlete blood tests look at several factors, including inflammation, immunity, and deficiencies. 

Suppose the blood test shows signs of high cortisol and inflammation. In that case, it can point you towards healing any hormone deficiencies that you may be dealing with as a result of intense exercise regimens. Biomarkers for inflammation may point to the fact that you are overtraining and need to take a break. 

Having nutrition deficiencies can be causing you to have energy or performance issues. The most common nutrition deficiency seen in athletes is iron deficiency because it is so easy to lose iron through sweating or running. An iron deficiency causes weakness, extreme fatigue, and pain which can affect your performance.

An athlete's blood test can help to identify these issues. These tests can help to point you in the right direction towards becoming the best version of yourself.

Tests Available Through Ulta Lab Tests

Several different tests are available through Ulta Lab Tests that can test for key performance biomarkers in the blood.

Wellness Performance FX tests 116 biomarkers through a series of tests focusing on cardiovascular and metabolic health. It also evaluates blood, kidney, and liver health, along with electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. 

The Comprehensive Performance test checks for 142 biomarkers through several tests, including:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC) (include blood levels, differential, and platelets)
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  • Lipid Panel with Ratios
  • Lipoprotein Fractionation, Ion Mobility
  • Urinalysis (UA) Complete

Two tests focus on the health of an athlete based on the hormones: 

The Blueprint Fitness- 3 Performance Panel focuses on:

  • Metabolic performance (including the resting metabolic rate)
  • Training status
  • Endurance & conditioning

The multifaceted athlete blueprint blood test will look for discrepancies in several tests, including:

  • Complete Blood Count
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
  • Estrogen/Testosterone
  • Immunoglobulin
  • Iron Total Iron Binding Capacity

These lab tests for enhancing performance focus on the benefits of testing and the types of tests used for optimal athletic performance. This means that these tests can be used to screen, diagnose, and monitor certain health conditions as well. 

Athletic Performance Determined by Biomarkers

The Complete Blood Count panel is great for getting the inside look into an athlete's performance. It highlights biomarkers, like Vitamin D and Ferritin, that impact the athlete's ability to perform to the best of their abilities. It also tests for cortisol and creatine levels in relation to overtraining and injury prevention. 

DHEA-S refers to the dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate test that checks for adrenal function/dysfunction. Having too low DHEA-S levels can cause diabetes, chronic fatigue, weakened bones (osteoporosis), while higher levels can point to adrenal cancer or PCOS. 

Thyroid testing is essential for athletes who are struggling with fatigue, unexplained weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, muscle cramps, depression, and irritability. Having abnormal thyroid levels can cause all of these issues for no apparent reason. Once you know that your thyroid is causing issues, you can work with your doctor to get them back to normal.

In general, urine tests are completed to detect possible drug use in athletes. A Complete Urinalysis, however, tests urine to detect any dysfunction within the kidneys and urinary tract for infections or illnesses. 

Hormones play a huge part in athletic performance. Testing for growth hormone, thyroxine, testosterone, cortisol, estradiol, and progesterone has a predictive role in how training needs to be adapted for optimal athletic performance.

A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) measures the levels of glucose and electrolytes in the body. It also determines liver and kidney function. These levels are then used to determine how your diet and exercise regimen keep your body balanced and helps you to figure out what you need to change to become the best athlete you can be.

Order Your Athlete Lab Tests From Ulta Lab Tests

Several benefits come with the use of Ulta Lab Tests. These tests are highly accurate and reliable because they are performed in a lab by a phlebotomist (they are not at-home test kits). 

These tests are so reliable that they come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You don't need a physician's referral or health insurance coverage for them. You can count on receiving secure and confident results within 24 and 48 hours. 

Contact Ulta Lab Tests today with any questions that you may have about an athlete blood test.