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Physiological responses to short-term exercise in the heat after creatine loading
J S Volek1, S A Mazzetti, W B Farquhar
1The Human Performance Laboratory, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306, USA. jvolek@bsu.edu
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|July 11, 2001
Summary
Creatine supplementation improved sprint performance in heat without affecting body temperature or hydration. This study found no adverse effects, suggesting creatine is safe for athletes exercising in hot conditions.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Sports Science
Background:
- Creatine supplementation is popular among athletes for enhancing performance.
- Its effects on physiological responses during exercise in heat require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of creatine monohydrate supplementation on cardiovascular, renal, temperature, and hormonal responses during exercise in heat.
- To assess the influence of creatine on exercise performance and safety in a hot environment.
Main Methods:
- Twenty healthy men were randomly assigned to creatine or placebo groups for 7 days.
- Participants underwent cycling exercise with sprints in a controlled hot and humid environment (37°C, 80% RH) before and after supplementation.
Main Results:
- Creatine supplementation increased body mass and peak power output during sprints.
- No significant differences were observed in heart rate, blood pressure, sweat rate, or rectal temperature between groups.
- Hormonal responses, including aldosterone, showed a slightly greater increase in the creatine group, but all other markers remained within normal physiological ranges.
Conclusions:
- Creatine supplementation enhances repeated sprint performance in the heat.
- It does not adversely affect thermoregulation or fluid balance during exercise in hot conditions.
- Creatine appears to be a safe ergogenic aid for athletes performing in the heat.