Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 1, 2025

Effects of a Novel Neuromuscular Training Intervention on Jump, Sprint, and Change of Direction in Adult Female Soccer Players
Published on: June 10, 2025
Ergogenic Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation on Middle-, But Not Short-Distance Swimming Tests: A
1Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
Abstract:
This meta-analysis explored the effects of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on swimming performance. Seven databases were searched to find relevant studies. A random-effects meta-analysis of standardized mean differences (SMD) was performed to analyze the data. Nine studies were included in the review. There was no significant difference between placebo and sodium bicarbonate when considering data from all included studies (SMD: -0.10; p = 0.208) or in the subgroup analysis for 91.4-m and 100-m swimming tests (SMD: 0.11; p = 0.261). In the subgroup analysis for 200-m and 400-m swimming tests, there was a significant ergogenic effect of sodium bicarbonate (SMD: -0.22; p < 0.001; -1.3%). Overall, these results suggest that sodium bicarbonate ingestion improves performance in 200-m and 400-m swimming events. The ergogenic effects of this supplement were small, but they may also be of substantial practical importance given that placings in swimming competitions are commonly determined by narrow margins.
Related Concept Videos
Bicarbonate-Carbonic Acid Buffer
Roles of Electrolytes: Chloride and Bicarbonate
Conditions such as hypochloremia can arise from insufficient chloride reabsorption by the kidneys, often compounded by extended bouts of diarrhea, vomiting,...
Acid Suppressive Drugs for Peptic Ulcer Disease: Antacids
However, this neutralization reaction between...
Diagnosing Acidosis and Alkalosis
First, the pH level is assessed to determine whether the blood pH is normal (7.35–7.45), low (acidosis), or high (alkalosis).
Next, the PCO2 and...
Titration of Polyprotic Base with a Strong Acid

