Caffeine Supplementation and Multiple Sprint Running Performance

Abstract

PURPOSE The aim of this study was to examine the effects of caffeine supplementation on multiple sprint running performance. METHODS: Using a randomised double-blind research design, 21 physically active men ingested a gelatine capsule containing either caffeine (5 mg-kg body mass-1) or the same volume (4 mg-kg body mass-1) of placebo (maltodextrin) one hour before completing an indoor multiple sprint running trial (12 × 30 m; repeated at 35 s intervals). Sprint times were recorded via twin-beam photocells and earlobe blood samples were drawn to evaluate pre and post-test lactate concentrations. Heart rates were monitored continuously throughout the tests with ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) recorded after every third sprint. RESULTS: Relative to placebo, caffeine supplementation resulted in a 0.06 s reduction in fastest sprint time (95% likely range: 0.04 to 0.09 s), a 1.2% increase in fatigue (95% likely range: 0.3 to 2.2%), a 3.4 b·min-1 increase in mean heart rate (95% likely range: 0.1 to 6.6 b·min-1), and significant (p < 0.05) elevations in pre (+ 0.69 mmol·L-1) and post-test (+ 1.76 mmol-L·1) blood lactate concentrations. In contrast, there was no significant effect of caffeine supplementation on RPE. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study show that caffeine has ergogenic properties with the potential to benefit performance in both single and multiple sprint sports. Supported by St. Mary's College Research Support Fund.