Impacts of a Novel Non-Stimulant-Based Ergogenic Supplement Blend on Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Time to Fatigue: A Pilot Study

Authors

Michiel P. Breen, California State University, Monterey BayFollow
Jason M. CholewaFollow
Steven B. Machek, California State University, Monterey BayFollow

Abstract

CrossFit athletes are frequently subjected to high-intensity training sessions that demand commensurately robust muscular and cardiovascular endurance capacities. Despite the propensity of research investigating the role of aerobically-associated ergogenic aids, few have elucidated their combination in highly trained athletic populations. PURPOSE: to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of a novel supplement comprising several empirically-supported ingredients and their potential ability to impact the aerobic performance in experienced CrossFit athletes. METHODS: Six experienced CrossFit athletes (3M/3F; aged 41±13y; training 5±1 times/week) ingested 2.0mL daily of a novel supplement proprietary formulation (Flow, Cerus, Vero Bleach, FL) containing Beetroot (Beta Vulgaris), Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Arjuna (Terminalia Arjuna), Rhodiola (Rhodiola Rosea), as well as Cayenne (Capsicum Annuum) for 28 days between a baseline and post-supplementation maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2MAX) assessment. Participants were asked not to change their exercise habits and consumed the aforementioned supplement 30 minutes prior to each training session and/or during the morning on rest days. A 4.0mL supplement dose was additionally administered 30 minutes prior to the post-supplementation aerobic capacity assessment. Both the treadmill VO_2MAX and test time-to-fatigue (elapsed finish-start time) were analyzed using separate paired-samples t-tests at a significance level of pRESULTS: Although VO_2MAX did not significantly increase (p=.146; Hedge’s G=.737), the participants’ treadmill assessment TTE demonstrated a statistically significant improvement (p=.012, Hedge’s G=.726) from pre- to post-supplementation (10.67 to 12.11 minutes [13.55%], respectively). Notably, the 2/6 participants that experienced pre- to post-supplementation VO_2MAX decrements tested positive for COVID-19 during their supplementation period. CONCLUSION: The present pilot study showcases the potential of a novel aerobically-associated ergogenic supplement. Nevertheless, future research should more rigorously evaluate these data by employing a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled design, as well as a larger sample size before any definitive conclusions may be inferred.

Recommended Citation

Breen, Michiel P.; Cholewa, Jason M.; and Machek, Steven B. (2022) "Impacts of a Novel Non-Stimulant-Based Ergogenic Supplement Blend on Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Time to Fatigue: A Pilot Study," International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 14: Iss. 2, Article 19.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol14/iss2/19