CREATINE IMPROVES MUSCLE FUNCTION IN WOMEN

Kambis, K. W., & Pizzedaz, S. K. (1999). Effect of oral creatine supplementation on maximum quadriceps contraction in women. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 31(5), Supplement abstract 1277.

Women were divided into a creatine supplement or placebo group. Supplement doses were 0.5 grams per Kg of free-fatty mass per day for five days. Quadriceps muscle strength was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. Resistance exercise was prohibited during the five days of supplementation.

Time to peak torque decreased and average power in both extension and flexion increased in the creatine group. Free-fatty mass, percent body fat, mid-quadriceps circumference, and skinfold thickness of the tested thigh, remained similar and unchanged in both groups.

Implication. Creatine supplementation improves muscle function in women without significant gains in muscle volume or body weight.

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