Turnagol, H. H., Guner, R., Bayer, C., Ceteman, M., & Acikada, C. (1998). The influence of coffee on incremental exercise, recovery and post exercise urine caffeine metabolites' concentrations. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 30(5), Supplement abstract 1382.

The effects of regular (5 mg/kg caffeine) and decaffeinated coffee on an incremental bicycle exercise (aerobic work) and recovery were evaluated. Male soccer players (N = 14) were tested under each coffee condition and a no-coffee condition. As well Ss were give the same conditions but without exercise. The exercise was performed in three-minute stages, each successive level being increased by 50 watts, and continued until exhaustion.

Caffeine had no effect on test parameters (VO2, VCO2, RER) or recovery. No S exceeded the caffeine limit of 12 ug/ml. Caffeine and caffeine metabolites were similar under the exercise and no exercise conditions.

Implication. Ingestion of caffeine (via coffee) does not have a positive effect on aerobic work. This contradicts the general belief that caffeine extends endurance capacity.

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