Quercetin Ingestion Does Not Effect Perceived Exertion in Athletes Competing in the Western States Endurance Run

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to measure the influence of quercetin supplementation on ratings of perceived exertion in ultra-marathon runners competing in the 160-km Western States Endurance Run (WSER). METHODS: Sixty-three runners were randomized to quercetin (Q) and placebo (P) groups, and under double blinded methods ingested four supplements per day with or without 250 mg quercetin for three weeks before the WSER. Thirty nine of the 63 subjects (quercetin N=18, placebo N=21) finished the race. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were assessed at aid stations located at 40, 90, 125, 150 and 160 km (finish line). RESULTS: The pattern of change in RPE over time was not significantly different between Q and P ingestion. RPE did not significantly increase throughout the race (15.2 ±2.9 at 40 km- 14.2 ±4.0 at 160 km) for both groups combined. Race times were not different between the groups (Q= 26.4 ±0.7 and P= 27.5 ± 0.6 h). Significant time main effects were found for both serum glucose and cortisol throughout the race. CONCLUSIONS: Quercetin supplementation for 3 weeks prior the WSER had no effect on ratings of perceived exertion during competitive self-paced ultra-marathon running.