Caffeine lowers perceptual response and increases power output during high-intensity cycling |
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| Authors: | Mike Doherty Paul M Smith Michael G Hughes RC Richard Davison |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Sport, Exercise and Biomedical Sciences , University of Luton , Luton, LU1 3JU;2. School of Sport, Physical Education and Recreation , University of Wales Institute Cardiff , Cardiff, CF2 6XD;3. The Centre for Sport and Exercise Science , Sheffield Hallam University , Sheffield, S10 2BP, UK |
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| Abstract: | The aim of this study was to determine the effects of caffeine ingestion on a ‘preloaded’ protocol that involved cycling for 2?min at a constant rate of 100% maximal power output immediately followed by a 1-min ‘all-out’ effort. Eleven male cyclists completed a ramp test to measure maximal power output. On two other occasions, the participants ingested caffeine (5?mg?·?kg?1) or placebo in a randomized, double-blind procedure. All tests were conducted on the participants' own bicycles using a Kingcycle? test rig. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE; 6–20 Borg scale) were lower in the caffeine trial by approximately 1 RPE point at 30, 60 and 120?s during the constant rate phase of the preloaded test (P?<0.05). The mean power output during the all-out effort was increased following caffeine ingestion compared with placebo (794±164 vs 750±163?W; P?=?0.05). Blood lactate concentration 4, 5 and 6?min after exercise was also significantly higher by approximately 1?mmol?·?l?1 in the caffeine trial (P?<0.05). These results suggest that high-intensity cycling performance can be increased following moderate caffeine ingestion and that this improvement may be related to a reduction in RPE and an elevation in blood lactate concentration. |
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| Keywords: | ergogenic aids preloaded exercise rating of perceived exertion short-term high-intensity exercise |
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