Acute Low-Dose Capsiate Supplementation Improves Upper Body Resistance Exercise Performance in Trained Men: A Randomized, Crossover and Double-Blind Study

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two acute doses of Capsiate (CAP; 6 vs. 12 mg) on upper body resistance exercise performance in trained men. Methods: Using a randomized, crossover and double-blind design, 20 resistance-trained males were supplemented with low-dose CAP (6 mg), high-dose CAP (12 mg) or placebo 45 minutes before exercise. Subjects performed 4 sets of bench press with repetitions to failure at 70% 1 repetition maximum (1RM) and 2 minutes of rest between each set. The ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and blood lactate were analyzed at baseline and after exercise. Results: Total weight lifted was greater in the low CAP (2,454.6 ± 448.6 kg) compared to placebo (2,354.7 ± 458.6 kg, p = 0.039) and high CAP (2,309.3 ± 428.1 kg, p = 0.001). There was no significant difference between conditions for RPE (p = 0.155) and blood lactate (p = 0.434). Conclusion: In summary, 6 mg CAP increased total weight lifted and repetitions to failure on bench press exercise in trained men, while 12 mg did not present any effect.