Dr. Ajmol Ali is Associate Professor at Massey University and one of the author's of the most up-to-date meta-analysis on the use of caffeine as an ergogenic aid in endurance sports. In this episode Dr. Ali discusses this meta-analysis (including 44 studies and more than a thousand total participants), the findings, practical applications, and limitations and direction for future research on caffeine in endurance sports. 

IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT:

-The background on caffeine in endurance sports, including the time on WADA's prohibited substances list

-The differences between the meta-analysis conducted by Dr. Ali and previous reviews and meta-analyses, including the specific inclusion criteria and reasons behind them

-The findings: 2-3% improvement in endurance performance longer than 5 minutes when ingesting 3-6 mg/kg bodyweight prior to the event

-Responders and non-responders: how factors such as caffeine metabolism and sensitivity (determined by specific genes) may impact the effect each individual gets from caffeine

-Washout period: do you need to taper off your coffee consumption before an event to get the benefits of caffeine supplementation on race day?

SHOWNOTES:

https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts234/

THAT TRIATHLON SHOW HOMEPAGE:

www.thattriathlonshow.com

SPONSORS:

Precision Hydration - One-size doesn't fit all when it comes to hydration. Take Precision Hydration's FREE sweat test and learn how you should hydrate. Use the discount code THATTRIATHLONSHOW15 to get 15% off your order OR use the code THATTRIATHLONSHOW and get your first box for free.

ROKA - The finest triathlon wetsuits, apparel, equipment, and eyewear on the planet. Trusted by Javier Gómez, Gwen Jorgensen, Flora Duffy, Mario Mola, Lucy Charles and others. Visit roka.com/tts for 20% off your order.

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

• The Effect of Acute Caffeine Ingestion on Endurance Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta–Analysis
• Caffeine Use In Sports: Considerations For The Athlete
• Dr. Ali's website
• Dr. Ali's profile on ResearchGate
• Evidence-based supplements for triathletes and endurance athletes | EP#193

RATE AND REVIEW:

If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/

CONTACT:

Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.