Vol 16, Issue 2

DOES BETA-ALANINE SUPPLEMENTATION POTENTIATE MUSCLE PERFORMANCE FOLLOWING 6 WEEKS OF BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION OR TRADITIONAL RESISTANCE TRAINING?

February 15, 2023 - By 

Authors

Kassiana de Araujo Pessoa, Federal University of Maranhao
Jason Michael Cholewa, University of Lynchburg
Rayssa Sousa-Silva, Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís – MA, Brazil.
Xia Zhi, Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, College of Physical Education, Jinggangshan University, Ji’an, China
Alessandro M. Zagatto, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Department of Physical Education, Bauru, Brazil.
Antonio Herbert Lancha-Jr, Laboratory of Skeletal Muscle Biology and Human Strength Performance (LABFORCEH), Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), São Luís – MA, Brazil.
Jakob D. Lauver, Coastal Carolina University
Fabricio Eduardo Rossi, São Paulo State University (UNESP)
NELO ZANCHI
International Journal of Exercise Science 16(2): 999-1011, 2023. 
DOI: 10.70252/TCYG6960

Abstract

We aimed to compare the effects of beta-alanine on Traditional Resistance Training (TRAD) or Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR). Methods: 19 subjects were randomly allocated to a Placebo (n = 10) or beta-alanine (n = 9) group. Subjects from both groups were trained unilaterally (unilateral arm curl) for six weeks, and each arm was trained using a different paradigm (BFR or TRAD). One repetition maximum (1RM) test measurements were performed before and after the strength training program. Work output was accessed as the total weight lifted (repetitions × weight lifted × sets) for the entire strength training program. Results: 1RM or total weight lifted was not increased by beta-alanine supplementation. However, the TRAD-trained arm showed a significantly increased 1RM and total weight lifted compared to the BFR arm (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We conclude that in the short-term (6 weeks) and following the current experimental conditions, beta-alanine does not benefit BFR or TRAD in terms of total weight lifted (volume of training) or maximal strength (1RM).

Recommended Citation