Robuvit® and endurance in triathlon: improvements in training performance, recovery and oxidative stress

The aim of this registry study was to evaluate the effects of supplementation with Robuvit® (Quercus robur wood extract, or "QR") on performance and endurance in triathlon by evaluating amateur athletes in a period of 2 weeks of training. Supplementation with QR may improve training efficiency (by decreasing post-triathlon, muscular pain, cramps and by improving recovery time). Robuvit® should decrease post-training plasma free radicals (PFR).

Sixty-one subjects (age range 30-40) were included in the study. Subjects followed a free diet. An isotonic saline drink was suggested to all subjects.

After 2 weeks there were 27 subjects using the supplement and 27 without supplementation. The groups were comparable. All subjects improved in training considering the 3 events (swim, biking, run). The improvement was greater with Robuvit® (P<0.05) for the swim and biking (P<0.05); the running time decreased by 12.32% in subjects using Robuvit® (3.6% in controls; P<0.05). The improvement the total triathlon time was -10.56% with Robuvit® in comparison to -3.41% in controls.

no side effects or tolerance problems were reported; all QR capsules were used as indicated.

In conclusion, the -10.56% shorter total trioathlon time was considered as very good improvement, considering that for this type of athletes being almost at the top of their form it is difficult to improve even further without severe training. Training was considered better (on an analogue scale) in the QR group (P<0.05). Postrun muscular pain, cramps, localized pain, straining and the recovery time, were all considered better with QR (P<0.05). Plasma free radical (PFR) values 1 hour after the final run were, on average,16.98% higher in controls (P<0.05), indicating a higher level of oxidative stress. Higher levels of PFR are associated with a slower recovery. All routine blood tests were normal at inclusion and after the final triathlon. After the final test run triathlon athletes using QR had a lower increase of UBR and LDH (indicator of hemolysis). These two tests were significantly increased in controls (P<0.05) but not in the Robuvit® group. Robuvit® supplementation improved training, results and decreased hemolysis.