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Reliability and effect of sodium bicarbonate: buffering and 2000-m rowing performance
Amelia J Carr1, Gary J Slater, Christopher J Gore
1Physiology Dept, Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra, Australia.
Sodium bicarbonate supplementation, both acute and chronic, did not significantly enhance 2000-m rowing performance. However, both protocols demonstrated reliable performance outcomes in well-trained rowers.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Supplementation
Background:
- Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is a known ergogenic aid.
- Its effectiveness and reliability for rowing performance require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of acute and chronic sodium bicarbonate intake on 2000-m rowing ergometer performance.
- To evaluate the reliability of these ergogenic protocols on rowing power output and blood bicarbonate levels.
Main Methods:
- A crossover study involving 7 well-trained rowers.
- Three conditions: acute bicarbonate (0.3 g/kg BM), chronic bicarbonate (0.5 g/kg BM for 3 days), and placebo.
- Double-blinded, semi-counterbalanced design with 2000-m rowing trials.
Main Results:
- No substantial differences in 2000-m rowing performance (watts) were observed between placebo, acute, and chronic bicarbonate conditions.
- Blood bicarbonate concentration ([HCO3-]) was significantly higher following acute bicarbonate ingestion compared to chronic loading and placebo.
- Typical error for 2000-m mean power indicated reliable performance across all conditions, though with variations.
Conclusions:
- Acute and chronic sodium bicarbonate loading may not offer significant performance benefits for 2000-m rowing.
- Both supplementation strategies appear to provide reliable performance results for this specific rowing duration.
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