Whey protein isolate or concentrate combined with concurrent training does not augment performance, cardiorespiratory fitness, or strength adaptations.

Abstract

Protein supplementation alters both strength and endurance training adaptations individually; however less is known regarding protein supplementation during concurrent training. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of whey protein supplementation during six weeks of concurrent training on performance, cardiorespiratory fitness, and maximal strength adaptations, as well as acute hormonal and immune responses. A secondary purpose was to explore the effects of two types of whey protein powders on these latter variables. Thirty-one participants were randomly assigned to supplement with a placebo (PLA; N.=10), whey protein isolate (WPI; N.=10), or whey protein concentrate (WPC; N.=11) in addition to their habitual diet. Total protein intake was 1.2, 3.5, and 3.5 g/kg/day for PLA, WPI, WPC groups, respectively. Exercise testing was performed before and after 6 weeks of concurrent training. Blood samples were obtained at rest, and 5 and 60 minutes after a simulated 2000 m rowing race prior to and after training. There were similar but significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (PLA +7.5%; WPI +3.9%; WPC +6.9%), upper body strength (PLA +5.5%; WPI +5.1%; WPC +6.7%), lower body strength (PLA +13.6%; WPI +9.4%; WPC +14.1%) and 2000m rowing performance (PLA -2.5%; WPI -2.3%; WPC -2.3%) in all groups, P<0.05. As well, hormonal and immune responses to acute exercise were similar over time and between groups. Whey protein supplementation did not differentially influence performance, cardiorespiratory fitness, upper and lower body strength, immune or hormonal adaptations following 6 weeks of concurrent training.