Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO(3)) ingestion has been found to be ergogenic in high-intensity exercise that ranges from 1 to 10 min; however, limited studies have investigated high-intensity exercise beyond this duration. PURPOSE: The present study aimed to determine the effect of NaHCO(3) ingested using a carbohydrate hydrogel delivery system on 40 km time trial (TT) performance in trained male cyclists. METHODS: Fourteen trained male cyclists ingested 0.3 g kg(-1) BM NaHCO(3) (Maurten AB, Sweden) to determine individualised peak alkalosis, which established time of ingestion prior to exercise. Participants completed a 40 km familiarisation TT, and two 40 km experimental TTs after ingestion of either NaHCO(3) or placebo in a randomised, double-blind, crossover design. RESULTS: NaHCO(3) supplementation improved performance (mean improvement = 54.14 s ± 18.16 s; p = 0.002, g = 0.22) and increased blood buffering capacity prior to (HCO(3)(-) mean increase = 5.6 ± 0.2 mmol L(-1), p < 0.001) and throughout exercise (f = 84.82, p < 0.001, pη(2) = 0.87) compared to placebo. There were no differences in total gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) between conditions either pre- (NaHCO(3), 22 AU; Placebo, 44 AU; p = 0.088, r = 0.46) or post-exercise (NaHCO(3), 76 AU; Placebo, 63 AU; p = 0.606, r = 0.14). CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that ingesting NaHCO(3) mini-tablets in a carbohydrate hydrogel can enhance 40 km TT performance in trained male cyclists, with minimal GIS. This ingestion strategy could therefore be considered by cyclists looking for a performance enhancing ergogenic aid.