Womack, J. W., Parker, A. G., Head, B. J., Green, J. S., & Crouse, S. F. (2006). Effects of short-term creatine monohydrate supplementation on high intensity, anaerobic exercise performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 2252.

This study determined the effect of short-term (five days) creatine monohydrate supplementation on maximal anaerobic exercise performance. College-aged Ss (N = 44) were randomly assigned to supplement for five days with either 20 gm/day of creatine monohydrate (M = 11; F = 11) or placebo (M = 8; F = 14). Ss performed a maximal effort, 30-second Wingate power bike test for indices of anaerobic power immediately prior to day 1 of supplementation and the day following the supplementation period. Measures of peak power, average power, minimum power, and power drop were measured during each Wingate test in Watts.

No changes were seen in peak power or average power in either group. Power drop was significantly lower following creatine supplementation. The Anaerobic Fatigue Index was also significantly lower in the creatine group (Pre - 42% vs. Post - 36%). No notable changes were seen in the placebo group. This suggests a lower level of muscle fatigue in creatine supplemented Ss.

Implication. Creatine supplementation for five days does not appear to increase peak or average power production during short duration, intense, anaerobic exercise. However, supplementation with creatine may dampen fatigue and loss of power.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.