The Effects of Targeted Marine Phytoplankton Supplementation on Long Term Recovery During Intensified Training

Abstract

Extended periods of intensified physical training results in decrements in physical and perceptual recovery. As a result, nutritional recovery methods are highly sought after.PurposeThis study investigated targeted enriched marine phytoplankton supplementation (Microalgae Tetraselmis chuii, Oceanix™, OCX) on Perceived Recovery (PRS) and Explosive Strength recovery during long term intensive training.MethodsTrained male and female subjects were divided into placebo (PLA) or Oceanix (OCX) (25 mg per day) conditions. The subjects were all placed on a 6‐week resistance‐training program interspersed with purposeful overreaching on Wk2 and Wk5, and low volume recovery training on Wk6. Recovery scale (PRS) changes (0–10) relative to initial maintenance training levels were taken on each successive week from baseline. Explosive Strength, measured as rate of force development, during a countermovement jump was assessed at pre‐test, and at weeks 2, 5 and 6.ResultsThe relative increase in PRS during the recovery Wk6 of training was greater (+16%) for OCX compared to PLA (p<0.05), indicating greater recovery. Explosive Strength was reduced after overreaching at Wk2 and Wk5 for both conditions (p<0.05). However, explosive strength only recovered fully for OCX and not the PLA during the recovery Wk6.ConclusionsTargeted marine phytoplankton supplementation (Oceanix™ supplementation) during extended periods of intensified training improves long‐term recovery in trained male and female subjects.Support or Funding InformationLonza