Effect of Caffeine on Anaerobic Cycling Performance

Caffeine is one of the most highly accessible and conventional supplements on the market, and is especially popular in young, non-elite populations. Previous research has been equivocal regarding the potential ergogenic effects of caffeine on exercise performance. This study was designed to elucidate the debate in the scenario of untrained individuals performing anaerobic exercise. Specifically, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a caffeine supplement on the anaerobic cycling performance of college students. In a double-blind crossover design, experimenters examined untrained individuals (n=11) over the course of three consecutive Wingate anaerobic cycling tests, separated by short periods of rest. Each participant underwent a familiarization trial of the protocol followed by two experimental trials; one in which a caffeine supplement was ingested 30 minutes prior to exercise, and one in which a placebo was ingested. It was hypothesized that participants would show improved anaerobic performance following caffeine supplementation when compared to placebo consumption. Significant results would permit the recommendation of caffeine as an ergogenic aid to enhance anaerobic performance in college students. This study is in progress, and results will be available during the Celebration of Undergraduate Research