Abstract
The use of dietary supplements is widespread in sports and fitness, with many products containing multiple ingredients. Among supplements often consumed to support musculotendinous health, collagen hydrolysate (CH) has gained popularity for its potential in improving joint comfort and function. This single-blind quasi-experimental study investigated the effects of a three-month oral supplementation with a specific CH-based product, Chondrovita FIT(®) (Bone Srl, Rome, Italy), on tendon structure in elite Italian skaters. Eighteen male and female elite skaters (mean age: 21 ± 3 years) participated, receiving daily pre-workout (4500 mg CH) and post-workout (2500 mg CH) doses. Tendon structure in the patellar and peroneal tendons was assessed using ultrasound imaging at baseline and post-supplementation. Results showed a significant increase in tendon thickness in both the patellar and peroneal tendons after supplementation, although no changes were observed in the tendon cross-sectional area. These findings suggest that Chondrovita FIT(®) supplementation may induce beneficial structural changes in tendons, potentially supporting tendon health and performance in high-load sports. However, further research is needed to confirm long-term effects and functional outcomes.