Beta-alanine Supplementation and High-intensity Interval Training

Does Beta-alanine Supplementation Augment the Skeletal Muscle Adaptive Response to 8 Weeks of High-intensity Interval Training

The present study will seek to quantify whether a period of HIIT alongside β-alanine supplementation will improve the adaptation to training, and therefore performance, more than a period of HIIT alone.

Whilst high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a powerful stimulus to increase endurance exercise performance, there are potential nutritional interventions that can be put in place to further increase performance gains.

Energy for the contraction of muscles is created in the mitochondria. HIIT can improve the function of mitochondria, therefore improving performance.

Β-alanine is a commonly used supplement that can improve exercise performance by increasing the amount of carnosine in muscle. Carnosine has many functions that may help improve exercise capacity.

The present study will seek to quantify whether a period of HIIT alongside β-alanine supplementation will improve the adaptation to training, and therefore performance, more than a period of HIIT alone.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Moderately trained (vo2max: 50 - 60 ml/kg/min).
• Females must be taking an oral contraceptive, or using a contraceptive implant.

Exclusion Criteria:

• A recent history of musculoskeletal injury
• Diagnosed cardiovascular or metabolic disease
• Regular use of beta-alanine supplements