DeRuisseau, K. C., Clarkson, P. M., Freedson, P. S., Volpe, S. L., & Rouzier, P. (1999). The effect of iron depletion on endurance performance in physically active females. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 31(5), Supplement abstract 461.

The effects of iron depletion on endurance performance and blood lactate responses to exercise were examined in physically active nonanemic females (N = 11). Ss were divided into iron-depleted and normal iron groups. A maximal work capacity test was administered to measure peak oxygen consumption. Several days later, a one-hour pre-loaded cycle ergometer test was performed.

Ferritin concentrations and relative mean VO2peak were lower in the depleted group. Performance did not differ between groups. Because of the small group sizes, this investigation might not have had sufficient statistical to recognize the differences that were recorded.

Implication. Iron depletion did not affect cycling performance in active females.

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