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Sodium bicarbonate ingestion improves performance in interval swimming.
J P Gao1, D L Costill, C A Horswill
1Human Performance Laboratory, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306.
Summary
Ingesting sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) significantly improved swimming performance in the later stages of repeated sprints. This ergogenic aid may delay fatigue by aiding hydrogen ion removal from muscles.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Repeated high-intensity exercise can lead to fatigue.
- Buffering capacity plays a role in performance during intense exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) ingestion on repeated sprint swimming performance.
- To examine the impact of NaHCO3 on physiological markers during exercise.
Main Methods:
- Ten male swimmers completed five 91.4m front crawl sprints with 2-minute rests.
- Subjects ingested either NaHCO3, a placebo, or no drink one hour before exercise.
- Blood samples were analyzed for pH, lactate, standard bicarbonate (SBC), and base excess (BE).
Main Results:
- No performance differences were observed between placebo and no-drink trials.
- NaHCO3 ingestion significantly improved performance in the fourth and fifth sprints (P < 0.05).
- Post-exercise blood lactate, pH, SBC, and BE were significantly higher with NaHCO3 treatment (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Pre-exercise sodium bicarbonate administration enhances repeated sprint exercise performance.
- NaHCO3 may improve performance by facilitating hydrogen ion efflux from muscles, delaying fatigue.