Related Experiment Videos
Creatine supplementation and its effect on musculotendinous stiffness and performance
Mark L Watsford1, Aron J Murphy, Warwick L Spinks
1Human Movement Department, School of Leisure, Sport, and Tourism, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia 2070. mark.watsford@uts.edu.au
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|February 13, 2003
Summary
Creatine supplementation does not increase musculotendinous stiffness or injury risk. However, creatine (Cr) enhances jump performance, indicating potential benefits for power output activities.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
Background:
- Anecdotal reports suggest creatine supplementation may increase muscle strain injuries.
- This hypothesis stems from the potential for fluid retention and
- dry matter growth
- to increase musculotendinous stiffness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To scientifically examine if creatine supplementation increases musculotendinous stiffness.
- To investigate the effects of creatine on performance indices and injury risk.
Main Methods:
- Twenty men were randomly assigned to a control or creatine group.
- Musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps surae and performance indices were measured before and after supplementation.
- Measurements included body mass, counter movement jump height, and drop jump height.
Main Results:
- The creatine group showed significant increases in body mass, counter movement jump height, and drop jump height.
- No significant increase in musculotendinous stiffness was observed in the creatine group.
- The control group exhibited no significant changes in any measured variables.
Conclusions:
- Creatine supplementation does not appear to increase musculotendinous stiffness or the risk of muscular strain injuries.
- Creatine supplementation enhances performance in activities requiring maximal power output, such as jumping.