Nemoto, I., Tanaka, A., & Kuroda, Y. (1996). Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation improves endurance capacities and RPE. Medicine and Science in Exercise and Sports, 28(5), Supplement abstract 219.

Female collegiate students (N = 30) ingested 11 gm of BCAA or a placebo 30 minutes prior to performing an incremental bicycle ergometer task and on another occasion a prolonged exercise test (at least one hour). The prolonged exercise was at three different intensities for three subgroups of Ss: lactate threshold, onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), and 90% OBLA.

It was found that BCAA administration improved endurance capacities and RPE during prolonged exercise of moderate intensity.

Implication. Branched-chain amino acids may have a beneficial effect on prolonged moderate-intensity endurance performance.

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