30 Seconds SummaryResearch Spotlight: Is rhodiola rosea supplementation a double-edged sword?
- Rhodiola rosea supplement was initially found to increase power output in maximal anaerobic cycling tests as per previous research.
- A new study tested rhodiola rosea's effects on resistance training, using a double-blind randomized crossover trial with 10 experienced resistance-trained males.
- Participants took 1500mg of rhodiola rosea or a placebo divided into three daily doses for three days, with an additional 500mg taken 30 minutes before bench press testing.
- Testing included explosive bench press reps and sets to failure at 75% of 1RM, with performance metrics and biochemical markers (like blood lactate and norepinephrine levels) measured.
- Results showed increased mean concentric velocity during explosive reps in the rhodiola group, suggesting higher initial power output.
- However, participants performed better in terms of number of reps during sets to failure and had lower fatigue in the placebo group.
- Blood lactate and resting norepinephrine levels were significantly higher post-training in the rhodiola group, indicating a possible mechanism for quicker onset of fatigue.
- These findings suggest rhodiola rosea might boost power output but could also increase fatigue, making its supplementation beneficial for short, power-focused activities but possibly detrimental for endurance activities.
- Further research is necessary to solidify these findings and fully understand the implications of rhodiola rosea supplementation in various exercise contexts.
Stronger By Science
Greg Nuckols
