No effect of short-term amino acid supplementation on variables related to skeletal muscle damage in 100 km ultra-runners - a randomized controlled trial

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of short-term supplementation of amino acids before and during a 100 km ultra-marathon on variables of skeletal muscle damage and muscle soreness. We hypothesized that the suppl...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Rosemann Thomas, Senn Oliver, Mrazek Claudia, Knechtle Patrizia, Knechtle Beat, Imoberdorf Reinhard, Ballmer Peter
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2011-04-01
Series:Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Online Access:http://www.jissn.com/content/8/1/6
Description
Summary:<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of short-term supplementation of amino acids before and during a 100 km ultra-marathon on variables of skeletal muscle damage and muscle soreness. We hypothesized that the supplementation of amino acids before and during an ultra-marathon would lead to a reduction in the variables of skeletal muscle damage, a decrease in muscle soreness and an improved performance.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Twenty-eight experienced male ultra-runners were divided into two groups, one with amino acid supplementation and the other as a control group. The amino acid group was supplemented a total of 52.5 g of an amino acid concentrate before and during the 100 km ultra-marathon. Pre- and post-race, creatine kinase, urea and myoglobin were determined. At the same time, the athletes were asked for subjective feelings of muscle soreness.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Race time was not different between the groups when controlled for personal best time in a 100 km ultra-marathon. The increases in creatine kinase, urea and myoglobin were not different in both groups. Subjective feelings of skeletal muscle soreness were not different between the groups.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>We concluded that short-term supplementation of amino acids before and during a 100 km ultra-marathon had no effect on variables of skeletal muscle damage and muscle soreness.</p>
ISSN:1550-2783