Koch, A. J., Hulver, M. W., Kuphal, K. E., Thyfault, J. P., & Potteigher, J. A. (2000). The effects of three nutritional supplements on performance and electrolyte status following 60 min of cycling. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 32(5), Supplement abstract 1148.

Males (N = 8) completed four exercise conditions following the ingestion of an electrolyte gel, a food-bar (Power Bar), Gatorade, or water. The exercise consisted of cycling for 60-min at a high-intensity (70-75% VO2max), 10-min recovery, and then a 100 kJ time trial at 90% VO2max.

There were no differences between conditions for heart rate, RPE, or serum electrolyte levels. Two Ss could not complete the time trial in the water condition. For those who completed the 100-kJ time trial, there were no differences between conditions.

Implication. An electrolyte gel, food-bar, Gatorade, and water produced similar electrolyte status and performance results.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.