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The effects of serial and acute NaHCO3 loading in well-trained cyclists
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 09:11 authored by Driller, MW, Gregory, J, Andrew WilliamsAndrew Williams, James FellMany studies have reported substantial performance gains in well-trained athletes following acute ingestion of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). However, acute NaHCO3 ingestion is not always practical. The aim of the current study was to compare acute NaHCO3 loading with serial NaHCO3 loading (split doses over three days) in well-trained cyclists. Eight male cyclists (mean ± SD; age = 28 ± 8 years; peak = 66.8 ± 8.4 ml.kg-1min-1) completed three tests in a double blind, randomized design over a three week time-frame: acute NaHCO3 loading (AL), serial NaHCO3 loading (SL) and a placebo loading condition (P). Following each loading protocol, cyclists completed a 4-minute performance test on a cycling ergometer. was measured during each test and blood samples were taken throughout the study to measure lactate, bicarbonate ion concentration ([HCO3-]) and pH levels. Both the AL and SL trials produced a significantly higher average power in the 4-minute test (mean ± SD; 3.3 ± 2.0% and 2.3 ± 2.5%; p < 0.001 and p = 0.01 respectively) when compared to the P trial, with no significant difference between AL and SL trials (p = 0.29). The AL trial produced a significantly greater post-loading alkalosis as determined by blood [HCO3-] when compared to the SL and P trial. Both acute and serial NaHCO3 loading significantly improve 4-minute cycling performance when compared to a placebo trial. However, serial NaHCO3 loading may provide a convenient and practical alternative approach for athletes preparing for competition.
History
Publication title
Journal of Strength and Conditioning ResearchVolume
26Issue
10Pagination
2791-2797ISSN
1064-8011Department/School
School of Health SciencesPublisher
Lippincott Williams & WilkinsPlace of publication
530 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USARights statement
Copyright 2012 National Strength and Conditioning AssociationRepository Status
- Restricted