Comparing two sports drinks effects on indices of aerobic performance

Abstract

This study was to compare the effects of a pre-exercise drink (PRX1) called EM PACT to Gatorade (PRX2) on VO2max performance. A previous study had indicated that ingestion of PRX1 significantly enhanced aerobic performance when compared to a water placebo. Twenty-two males (n = 13) and females (n = 9) ages 20-36 years (23.68 + 3.91), volunteered as subjects. Each subject performed two VO2max treadmill tests within two weeks of each other. Administration of the trials was double-blinded and randomized with half of the participants ingesting a PRX1 during the first trial and PRX2 during their second trial with the product order being reversed for the other subjects performing both exercise trials. In this crossover design, each subject ingested the PRX1 or PRX2 exactly 20 minutes before each exercise bout. VO2max maximal heart rate (HR), time to exhaustion (Time), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), fat substrate utilization, and maximal MET level during graded exercise testing were evaluated. Using repeated measures ANOVA, results indicate that aerobic performance, specifically VO2max maximal MET percent fat utilization, and RER levels may be significantly affected by ingestion of PRX1 20 minutes prior to exercise testing (p < .05). Differences in overall time to exhaustion as well as gender specific values for each variable were not significantly different between the two exercise trials, however; during aerobic exercise bouts, the combined results of this investigation may provide meaningful practical applications for coaches and athletes alike regarding ergogenic hydration options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]