EFFECTS OF TRANSDERMAL MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE ON RECOVERY OF FORCE PRODUCTION AND PERCEIVED MUSCLE SORENESS AFTER ECCENTRIC EXERCISE

ABSTRACT Michael Henry Bass: Effects of Transdermal Magnesium Chloride on Recovery of Force Production and Perceived Muscle Soreness after Eccentric Exercise Under supervision of Dr. Erik Hanson Purpose: To examine the effects of transdermal magnesium chloride (tMgCl2) application on recovery in isometric force production and perceived muscle soreness following a bout of eccentric leg extensions. Methods: 19 recreationally active men completed a randomized, double blinded, crossover of isometric force production and muscle soreness assessment. Isometric knee extensor strength and perceived muscle soreness were assessed immediately following eccentric exercise intervention and at 24, 48, and 96 hours. Results: tMgCl2 did not reduce perceived muscle soreness (p=0.510) or increasing muscle force recover (p=0.742). However, there was a slightly attenuated degree of pain and 4% increase in force production after accounting for the effects of leg dominance. Conclusion: tMgCl2 may be beneficial for the micro-cycle phase of training. Future studies should consider investigating using higher dosages or longer supplementation periods to determine if tMgCl2 improves muscle force following eccentric exercise.Master of Art