Caffeinated Chewing Gum Improves Bicycle Motocross Time-Trial Performance.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Supplementation

Background:

• Caffeine is a widely recognized ergogenic aid in sports.
• Its effects on high-intensity, short-duration activities like BMX time-trials require specific investigation.
• Chewing gum offers a convenient delivery method for caffeine supplementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the acute effects of caffeinated chewing gum (CAF) on bicycle motocross (BMX) time-trial (TT) performance.
• To assess the impact of CAF on power output and perceived exertion during BMX TTs.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over study involving 14 male BMX riders.
• Participants consumed either 300 mg of caffeinated gum or a placebo gum.
• Performance was evaluated through three BMX time-trials, measuring TT time, peak power, and maximal power-to-weight ratio.

Main Results:

• Caffeinated chewing gum (CAF) demonstrated a significant ergogenic effect, reducing TT time by 1.5%.
• Peak power and maximal power-to-weight ratio increased by 3.5% and 3%, respectively, with CAF consumption.
• Rating of perceived exertion was significantly lower with CAF compared to the placebo.

Conclusions:

• A moderate dose (300 mg) of caffeinated chewing gum can enhance BMX time-trial performance.
• CAF improves performance by increasing power output and decreasing the perception of exertion.
• BMX athletes and coaches may consider using CAF as a pre-race strategy to boost performance.