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Effect of ceasing creatine supplementation while maintaining resistance training in older men
Darren G Candow1, Phillip D Chilibeck, Karen E Chad
1College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon SK, Canada.
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
|July 21, 2004
Summary
Creatine supplementation cessation did not impact strength or lean mass in older men undergoing reduced training. Muscle endurance slightly decreased, with similar rates of change observed in both creatine-withdrawn and control groups.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Previous research demonstrated creatine (Cr) combined with resistance training enhances muscle strength, endurance, and lean tissue mass (LTM) in older men.
- Understanding the effects of creatine withdrawal during reduced training is crucial for maintaining physical function in aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of creatine cessation combined with reduced-volume training on muscle strength, endurance, and LTM in older men.
- To compare the changes in these variables between older men who ceased creatine supplementation and those who did not.
Main Methods:
- A subgroup of older men (n=8, 73 years) who previously supplemented with creatine ceased supplementation and underwent 12 weeks of reduced-volume training (33% lower).
- A control group of older men (n=5, 69 years) who did not receive creatine also underwent 12 weeks of reduced-volume training.
- Muscle strength (1-repetition maximum [1-RM]), endurance (maximal repetitions at 70-80% 1-RM), and LTM (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were assessed pre- and post-intervention.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in muscle strength or LTM were observed in either group.
- Muscle endurance showed a significant reduction (7-21%; p <.05) in both groups.
- The rate of change in strength, endurance, and LTM was similar between the group that withdrew from creatine and the control group.
Conclusions:
- Withdrawal from creatine supplementation had no discernible effect on the rate of strength, endurance, or LTM loss during a 12-week period of reduced-volume training in older men.
- Maintaining muscle mass and strength may be less dependent on continued creatine supplementation than previously thought, particularly under conditions of reduced training stimulus.