An Initial Investigation Into the Effects of β-Alanine on Performance and Physiological Responses During Simulated Wrestling Matches

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Placebo (Placebo trial): The Placebo capsule supplement was taken for 4 weeks (6 capsules per day).

Beta-Alanine (Beta-Alanine trial): The Beta-Alanine capsule supplement was taken for 4 weeks, with a daily dosage of 4.8 g of Beta-Alanine (equivalent to 6 capsules per day, each containing 800 mg of Beta-Alanine).

Study summary

This research aims to investigate the effects of beta-alanine (BA) supplementation on simulated 2-day freestyle wrestling performance, as well as on exercise-induced muscle fatigue and oxidative stress in wrestlers. In addition to the common issue of long-term insufficient energy intake due to weight control, high-intensity training can further exacerbate exercise-induced oxidative stress and muscle fatigue, thereby impairing athletic performance. Therefore, finding effective ergogenic aids to reduce these negative physiological responses is crucial for optimizing athletes' competitive condition. Based on a literature review, this study will implement the Specific Wrestling Performance Test (SWPT) to simulate two consecutive days of freestyle wrestling competitions according to Kraemer's model. Multiple performance assessments will be used to evaluate the impact of BA supplementation on athletes' physiological indicators and performance. It is expected that BA supplementation will enhance systemic antioxidant capacity, reduce muscle fatigue and oxidative stress induced by simulated wrestling matches, and improve wrestling-specific physical performance.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Specific Wrestling Performance Test (SWPT) — Including for 4 days in both beta-alanine and placebo trials
  The test consists of two rounds with identical procedures. Each round lasts for 3 minutes, with a 30-second rest interval between rounds. During the first minute, participants perform one throw every 10 seconds for a total of 3 throws. This is followed by maximal repeated throws performed between 30 and 50 seconds, and then a rest period from 50 to 60 seconds. The second minute follows the same procedure as the first minute. In the third minute, participants again perform one throw every 10 seconds for a total of 3 throws, followed by 30 seconds of maximal repeated throws, during which the total number of throws is recorded. According to the experimental design of Marković, the dummy weight is adjusted based on the athlete's body weight: participants weighing less than 75 kg throw a 22 kg dummy, those weighing between 75-90 kg throw a 27 kg dummy, and those weighing more than 90 kg throw a 32 kg dummy (Marković et al., 2022).

Trial sites (1)

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