Molecular hydrogen (H2) recently appeared as a novel and safe ergogenic agent that might have beneficial effects in athletes. However, no information is available concerning the impact of H2 on post-exercise recovery indices.
PURPOSE: To determine the effects of pre-exercise H2 administration on post-exercise heart rate and blood lactate responses in judo athletes.
METHODS: Five athletes (24.4 ± 3.4 yrs, 74.8 ± 2.3 kg, 177.8 ± 2.5 cm) were recruited for this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover pilot study. Participants were instructed to ingest formulation containing 6.4 g of H2 or placebo ~ 30 minutes before repeated Special Judo Fitness Test (RSJFT). Blood lactates and heart rates were recorded during recovery period at 3 min, 5 min and 15 min, and 10 s, 20 s, 30 s, 60 s, 3 min and 15 min, respectively.
RESULTS: Molecular hydrogen significantly blunted lactate response during recovery period as compared to the placebo (7.23 ± 1.95 vs 9.22 ± 1.51 mmol/L; p = 0.011). Furthermore, a trend has been found for decreased post-exercise heart rate in group supplemented with H2 (p = 0.111).
CONCLUSION: Hydrogen-rich water appears to be an appropriate strategy to positively affect post-exercise lactates in judo athletes.
Study was partially supported by the Provincial Secretariat for Science and Technological Development (Grant No. 114-451-1301/2014-01), the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development (Grant No. 175037), and the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Novi Sad (2015 Annual Award).
