Acute Capsaicin Supplementation Improves Resistance Training Performance in Trained Men

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Supplementation

Background:

• Capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers, is known for its potential ergogenic effects.
• Limited research exists on the acute effects of capsaicin supplementation on resistance training performance in trained individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute impact of capsaicin supplementation on performance, perceived exertion, and blood lactate during resistance exercise.
• To assess the efficacy of a 12 mg dose of capsaicin in trained young men.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving ten resistance-trained men.
• Participants performed four sets of squats to failure at 70% of 1RM, with either 12 mg capsaicin or a placebo consumed 45 minutes prior.
• Total mass lifted, repetitions, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and blood lactate concentrations were measured.

Main Results:

• Total mass lifted was significantly higher in the capsaicin group compared to the placebo group (3,919.4 ± 1,227.4 kg vs. 3,179.6 ± 942.4 kg).
• Rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was significantly lower in the capsaicin condition (17.2 ± 1.0) versus placebo (18.3 ± 1.7).
• No significant differences in blood lactate concentrations were observed between the capsaicin and placebo conditions.

Conclusions:

• Acute capsaicin supplementation can improve lower-body resistance training performance in trained young men.
• Capsaicin may enhance performance by reducing the perception of effort during strenuous resistance exercise.
• Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms behind capsaicin's ergogenic effects.