Effects of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Anaerobic Performance and Fatigue Responses in Competitive Break Dancers
Öz
Breaking is a physically demanding discipline characterized by repeated high-intensity movements and substantial anaerobic demands. This study aimed to examine the effects of four weeks of beta-alanine supplementation on anaerobic performance and fatigue-related responses in competitive break dancers. Twenty-four male competitive break dancers participated in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study. Participants completed two supplementation conditions: beta-alanine (6.4 g·day⁻¹) and placebo (6.4 g·day⁻¹ maltodextrin), each lasting four weeks and separated by a two-week washout period. Performance was assessed before and after each phase using a standardized testing sequence consisting of a pre-exercise countermovement jump, the Running Anaerobic Sprint Test, a post-exercise countermovement jump, and ratings of perceived exertion. Significant condition × time interactions were observed for countermovement jump performance and Running Anaerobic Sprint Test mean power (p < 0.001). Post-exercise countermovement jump performance also improved following beta-alanine supplementation. However, an additional analysis of within-session countermovement jump loss (Post-CMJ − Pre-CMJ) did not demonstrate a significant attenuation of acute neuromuscular fatigue compared with placebo (p = 0.748). In addition, fatigue index and ratings of perceived exertion were significantly reduced compared with placebo (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that beta-alanine supplementation enhances anaerobic performance, improves countermovement jump performance, and reduces fatigue index and perceived exertion in competitive break dancers. Therefore, beta-alanine may be considered an effective ergogenic strategy for sports involving repeated high-intensity intermittent efforts.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Anaerobic performance, beta-alanine, breaking
Destekleyen Kurum
This study received no specific financial support from any public, commercial, or non-profit funding agency.
Etik Beyan
The study followed the ethical principles set out in the Declaration of Helsinki. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Sports Sciences at Atatürk University (Decision No: 191, dated 22 October 2025).
Kaynakça
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