20 pager

1
Running head: SODIUM BICARBONATE: A ROLE IN SPORTS PERFORMANCE
Sodium Bicarbonate: A Role in Sports Performance
Allison Kliewer
University of the Incarnate Word
September 30, 2011

2
Introduction
Athletes involved in sports try to compete and train at the best of their abilities. They
have to be able to perform in any condition and at their best in order to excel in a sport.
Athletes that excel in their sport can achieve opportunities, such as institutional scholarships,
endorsements, thousands and even millions of dollars worth of contracts. To the less elite
athlete, being the best at a sport means winning a district game, a high school championship or
breaking a personal record. In any case all athletes strive to be their best and perform using
100% of their abilities.
Many dietary supplements offer consumers, promises. These products can be put into
categories for the casual exerciser, the weekend work-out fanatic, the one-time-a-month gym
member, the parent as well as their little league child, the beginner trainer, the elite, and the
professional athlete. They offer to do such things as better performance, strength, endurance,
and lean muscle mass. There is a billion dollar industry in sport supplements and ergogenic aids.
Rakhee, D. (2008) from BCC research estimated “that the market for sports nutrition products
reached $ 31.2 billion and should reach $91.8 billion by 2013.” These ergogenic aids and dietary
supplements are used to enhance sport performance and many are outlawed by institutions
such as the NCAA and United States Olympic Committee. Coaches and athletes who are looking
to improve performance and training blindly take supplements without knowing the real effects
of the product.

3
Ergogenic aids and other supplements that are aimed towards athletes are not
regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) therefore can claim to do things not
proven. Some of the most popular sport supplements are creatine, protein or amino acid
complexes, and caffeine. There are regulations for these supplements by some sports
institutions but many supplements have not been regulated. It is important to have regulations
to ensure that every athlete is on the same playing field, and to ensure the safety of the
athlete. Mirasol, F. (2009) reported in a web article that the FDA had issued a public health
advisory, warning consumers to stop using bodybuilding products that are commonly marketed
as dietary supplements. Since the federal government does not regulate such products, the
product is manufactured independently without codes or regulations, putting every consumer
of the product at risk. Most products are taken off the market only after serious health
problems have been reported in association with the supplement. “The FDA has authority to
act only after it has received reports of serious health problems associated with products
already on sale and it is able to prove a serious health hazard” (Singer, N., and Schmidt, M.
2009). It is the role of the dietician, sports nutritionist, and health professional to guide and
inform the athlete, as well as anyone who has influence over the athlete, such as parents and
coaches about proper sports nutrition and what is needed from their diet to enhance and allow
the body to perform at 100% of the athlete’s natural ability.
If a supplement is on the market athletes must be aware of the ergogenic potential, as
well as the health hazards. Also, if a supplement offers an ergogenic benefit, sports institutions
and athletes alike need to know what the benefits are so that a substance can be banned if
need be, and eliminate the possibility of an unfair playing field. Athletes who can pay for the

4
supplements should not have an edge over those athletes who cannot pay for the supplement
or do not choose to artificially aid themselves in order to perform at a higher level. That is why
it is important to determine whether a product has ergogenic potential so that regulations, if
needed, are made.
Sodium bicarbonate is one of the newest supplementations available on the market.
Although sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, has been a household
item for years, it is new in terms of sport enhancement. It claims to increase endurance,
shorten recovery time, and help increase intensity during exercise. Claims from internet sources
such as bsnonline.net, bodybuilding.com and other supplement shops proclaim that taking
sodium bicarbonate will increase endurance, intensity with resistance training, help with
muscle recovery, and maximize physique and performance impact. There are no regulations
concerning sodium bicarbonate, nor has the supplement been proven as a performance
enhancing ergogenic aid.
Studies have reported conflicting results regarding sodium bicarbonate ingestion in
athletes, and although it is sold as a sport enhancing dietary supplement, ergogenic effects of
sodium bicarbonate have not been elucidated. Conclusive evidence is needed to determine the
role of sodium bicarbonate on sport performance.
Sodium Bicarbonate on Sprint Exercise
Sprint exercise is a predominantly high intensity exercise. Athletes who are involved in
sprint sports are usually interested (in a dietary supplement) for an increase in training
intensity, strength, power, and faster sprint times. Sprint athletes also look for fast recovery

5
times because many will have to repeat sprints within a game or tournament. Sprint athletes
tend to have greater muscle mass then those involved in endurance sports. Sprinters need a
rapid response from supplementation because sprints are short lived compared to an
endurance athlete who will need the effects of supplementation to last throughout the
duration on their event. The articles following will discuss the effects of sodium bicarbonate
ingestion/supplementation on sprint athletes.
In 2010, Zinner, C., Wahl, P., Achtzehn, S., Sperlich, B., and Mester, J. conducted a
random experimental double blind study on 11 trained male participants between 20 and 32
years of age. According to Zinner (2010), the problem being investigated was concerning the
fact that there was no data regarding oral ingestion of sodium bicarbonate on repeated high
intensity sprint exercise and lactate and hydrogen ion distribution. Oral ingestion of sodium
bicarbonate leads to a higher efflux of lactic acid (La) to the working skeletal muscle. The higher
gradient of La between plasma and the red blood cells would lead to a higher amount of La in
the red blood cells. This influx would alter the ratio between the La and RBCs and between the
plasma which would therefore increase performance, which is what was hypothesized.
The purpose of the study was to investigate the hypothesis and specifically test whether
oral ingestion of sodium bicarbonate will increase the influx of lactate into red blood cells
changing the ratios of red blood cells to plasma, therefore increasing performance during
repeated sprint exercise (Zinner, 2010). High intensity exercise off balances lactate, red blood
cells, and plasma equilibrium which causes fatigue; buffering of the equilibrium will enhance
performance. This knowledge helped to guide the framework of the article.

6
The total duration of the protocol was 42 minutes consisting of a 10 minute warm up
period at 50% of peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ max) followed by four 30 second bouts of maximal
exercise separated by five minutes passive rest and a recovery period of ten minutes after the
last bout. The power output and oxygen uptake had a technical error measurement of 1.2%
and 2.8%. Repeated measured ANOVA was used to compare variables across the time points.
Blood samples were taken from the earlobe of the participants and used reliable instruments to
measure the data.
The outcomes of the study were as so; the lactate ratio was not affected by sodium
bicarbonate ingestion and the hydrogen ion ratio is not affected by short maximal bouts of
exercise, as that of the lactate ratio. The most significant finding was that there was an increase
in the intensity of the exercise.
The design is appropriate for the study and purpose of the study. The design is
appropriate to answer the stated purpose and questions, however there could have been more
tested. The athletes only reported three times to be tested, whereas the study would have
been more thorough if the athletes had more testing trials so there could be more conclusive
evidence. The design validity is threatened by the limited number of trials. There is a logical link
between the design, sampling method and statistical analysis. The sample size is small and
limited. There is bias because they are only male athletes and only 11 participants which is a
weakness of the study. The evidence would be stronger and more valid if the sample size was
larger and included females. The study also does not state what kind of athletes the
participants were. If there was variation in the sports the participants were involved in, that

7
might affect the outcome of the study. Mortality, inclusion and exclusion criteria were not
reported on. The instruments were not clearly stated and not all instruments were addressed.
The reliability and strategies are not described sufficiently as are the recording strategies. The
data analysis is thorough. Using the statistical software the outcomes are reliable. The results
were labeled and addressed in an understandable manner and the analysis was interpreted
correctly.
Future studies would include a larger sample size to increase validity; a larger sample
size will also allow the article to be generalized to a larger population. Females would need to
be added to the study. A sound sampling method would help to avoid a weakened study. Data
collection should have been matched to a previous study that way the findings could directly
compare. To compare closely with other studies the protocol could have been very similar or
the same to strengthen the findings. Blood sampling methods also differed from previous
studies causing discrepancy. The insignificant findings concerning the lactate levels could be
due to the small sample size. The different sampling times between blood lactate and the
hydrogen ion concentration could have also caused some discrepancies. Future testing needs to
be done matching protocol and methods to previous studies in order to compare the findings
and be able to draw a conclusion.
Lavender, G., and Bird, S. conducted a similar study in 1989, which is considered old
research now, but still has strong evidence and recent studies to validate their outcomes.
Fatigue that is experienced during intensive short exercise is attributed to lactacidosis.
Lactacidosis inhibits muscular contraction by inhibiting key glycolytic pathways, inhibiting the

8
releases of calcium ions form the sarcoplasmic reticulum and the binding of these ions to the
protein troponin, and impairing the neural impulse propagation. Based on that framework
many studies have hypothesized and tested to see if an alkaline such as sodium bicarbonate
could act as a buffer against the lactacidosis that happens within the muscle during intense
exercise. Some studies have found that an ingestion of sodium bicarbonate before exercise will
increase performance, while other studies have found no improvement. Prior to Lavender, G.,
and Bird, S. (1989) there had been mixed studies on the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate on
muscle metabolism and exercise performance; there were also no previous studies that focused
on sprint exercises.
The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of sodium bicarbonate ingestion upon
repeated bouts of intensive short duration exercises. Lavender, G., and Bird, S. (1989)
performed a double-blind random experimental design study. There were 8 female and 15 male
fit and healthy participants between the ages of 18 and 28 who volunteered for the study. The
participants were tested on a cycle ergometer and performance was assessed using a light-
sensitive monitor linked to a BBC microcomputer.
Using analysis of variance test over peak power and average power, there was a
significantly higher average power in the supplement group. The sodium bicarbonate group
also showed a significantly higher peak power value, but was only seen in two of the sprint
repetition tests. The findings also confirm what other tests had found; the duration of the
exercise is important if the enhanced bicarbonate buffer proved to be most effective (Lavender,
G., and Bird, S. 1989). The main findings support previous studies that concluded ingestion of

9
sodium bicarbonate improves performance of short-duration exercise. Lavender, G., and Bird,
S. also found that bicarbonate ingestion can increase power output during repeated sprints and
the effects of the supplement increase as the number of sprints increase (1989).
The treatment in the design is clearly stated but there is some uncertainty concerning
the subset group. There is only one mention about the subset group which is odd. However, the
design was appropriate and seemed to be valid, as well as linked to the sample method and
statistical analysis. The sample was a good size and although it had more males, females were
included. There is, however discrepancy in the study because it did not say the participants
were athletes, only that they were familiar with maximal effort. The supplementation of
sodium bicarbonate directly applies to athletes, the study is weakened when the participants
they chose may not be athletes. Instruments were a weak part of this article. Some were
addressed but not all instruments were found in the literature. Reliability is questionable
considering the instruments were not given much attention in the article. The findings,
however are reliable because they can compare to previous findings conducted through other
studies. The data analysis was limited and could have been clearer, but was appropriate for the
study. The analysis was interpreted correctly and the tables and charts helped the strength of
the analysis.
The blackcurrant ingestion group is not fully discussed in the material and methods
section of the article which raises questions. Also the results of the blackcurrant ingestion group
is mentioned but without much detail and with “small inconsistent differences “reported

10
(Lavender, G., and Bird, S. 1989). This weakens the study because it raises questions about the
validity and ethical practices performed.
The fact that the findings can be compared to previous studies and find the same
conclusions greatly strengthens the study. The study is over ten years old which shows that
sodium bicarbonate has not been explored much by researchers. There needs to be new
research possibly with the same procedure and method, but with new instrumentation. The
new technology might find alternate outcomes than those Lavender, G., and Bird, S. found 22
years ago.
Conclusion of Sodium Bicarbonate on Sprint Exercise
Based on the two articles exploring sodium bicarbonate ingestion on sprints and
repeated sprint exercise, we can conclude that sodium bicarbonate does have a beneficial
effect on sprint athletes. They now need to investigate how long the sodium bicarbonate will
work as a buffer against lactate in the muscle and find if there are limits to the positive effect.
Sodium Bicarbonate on Endurance Exercise
Endurance athletes are known for their ability to keep moderate to high intensity
throughout a long period of time during an event. Compared to the physical characteristics of a
sprint athlete, endurance athletes tend to have a lower muscle mass and a low body fat
percentage. Endurance athletes need to be able to perform with intensity and skill ability
throughout a long event. These athletes look for a way to keep up their endurance and fight the
effect of fatigue. In a supplement they would look for something to delay the onset of fatigue

11
and help keep up the energy. Sodium bicarbonate offers to delay the onset of fatigue so the
potential benefits of NaHCO could affect the endurance athlete if they choose to use the
supplement. The following article investigates the effects of sodium bicarbonate on endurance
athletes.
Another out dated study was conducted by McLaughton, L., Dalton, B., and Palmer, G. in
1999. Although the article is not recent the results of this study are still reliable. Sodium
bicarbonate has been used as a buffering agent to improve performance during continuous
short term high intensity work. There have been time improvements documented for
performance ranges from 30 seconds to 6 minutes. This base knowledge is what guided the
framework of the study. Prior to the present study there have not been conclusive results
pertaining to the use of sodium bicarbonate as a buffer substance in aerobic performance. Due
to the lack of information, the purpose of the study is to determine whether sodium
bicarbonate given in a 300 mg/kg body mass dose, could improve competitive cycle ergometer
performance of 60 minute duration, in well trained endurance athletes riding in a competitive
situation.
There were 10 male volunteers that all had very similar anthropometric characteristics.
All cyclists were currently training and were familiar with physiological laboratory testing and
time trials in a competitive situation. Mortality, inclusion, and exclusion criteria were not
reported on. They performed the test on an air-braked cycle ergometer. The performance data
was analyzed using a one way analysis of variance ANOVA. The blood gas and lactate data was
analyzed with a two way ANOVA with repeated measures.

12
There was a positive benefit during the 60 minute competitive cycle with a 14% higher
average power output compared with an older study. This could be due to a difference in
protocol, as well as a difference in substances used for testing. McLaughton, L., Dalton, B., and
Palmer, G. used sodium bicarbonate as the testing solution, and the previous study used
sodium citrate (1999). The ergogenic effects are clear and most likely due to the maintenance
of pH levels in the blood.
The design is clear and appropriate for the purpose of the study. Design is valid and
could only be strengthened by more tests or a more specific test, but the test run were
appropriate for the purpose of the study. There is a logical link between design, sample and
statistical analysis. The sample size is low and has potential biases. There are no females
included in the study; also the participants have already been used in laboratories and other
studies, which might open room for bias. Also, there was not much variation in the
characteristics of the subjects, which can limit the strength of the study design. One strength of
the study is that the subjects are all cyclists and cycling was the exercise used for testing. The
instruments were no t clearly addressed or explained. Specific instruments were given but with
unclear understanding of how they were used. Accuracy, precision and error control was not
recorded. However, the data analysis was very in depth and appropriate for the study.
Conclusion of Sodium Bicarbonate on Endurance Exercise
Future studies should test other endurance sports and compare findings. The
McLaughton, L., Dalton, B., and Palmer, G. showed that there is a benefit on high intensity
cycling events lasting 60 minutes, but other endurance sports might have different results.

13
There also needs to be other similar studies conducted so that the results form McLaughton
can be verified and strengthened.
Sodium Bicarbonate on Resistance Training
Resistance training requires energy demand and a high level of anaerobic metabolism.
Most athletes do not compete in resistance training; rather they use resistance training to
condition and strengthen their bodies to be able to perform at a higher level. Since sodium
bicarbonate is associated with such effects as increasing blood lactate and bicarbonate levels,
decreasing perceived exertion, increasing the exercise time to exhaustion, and improving
performance in high intensity strength training, an athlete who is involved with resistance
training would possibly benefit from the sodium bicarbonate supplementation. The next article
explores the effects sodium bicarbonate has on resistance training.
Wollner, M., Sanos, E., Jerfferson, D. and Novaes, S. state that acidosis is the major
cause of fatigue (2008). The increase hydrogen ion concentration causes a drop in the muscular
and blood pH, slows glycolosis, interferes with calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum
and calcium ion binding, and increases perception of fatigue. Sodium bicarbonate has been
found to induce alkalosis when ingested in humans, therefore could delay acidosis and allow a
higher blood lactate concentrations during exercise. Metabolic alkalosis through ingestion or
infusion of sodium bicarbonate has been shown to enhance performance for short duration
high intensity exercise, but the mechanisms have not been fully elucidated (Wollner, M., Sanos,
E., Jerfferson, D. and Novaes, S. 2008). Therefore, the purpose of the study was to examine the
acute ergogenic effect of sodium bicarbonate on muscular strength.

14
Subjects were randomly selected from gym academies in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. There
were 11 males ranging from the age of 19 to 39 years. The study was designed as a cross-
sectional, community based survey. The subjects were tested on bench press and pull press
exercises with the two groups either with or without the sodium bicarbonate supplement.
Inclusion and exclusion criteria were not mentioned, but one participant did not complete the
study due to an injury.
Wollner, M., Sanos, E., Jerfferson, D. and Novaes, S. found that there was no ergogenic
effect of sodium bicarbonate ingestion on muscular strength (2008). Former strength studies
found conflicting evidence and concluded sodium bicarbonate as an ergogenic aid. The
conflicting results could be caused by many different things. One reason could be to the fact
that the present study did not take blood samples, therefore the pH and H ion distribution
cannot be analyzed. The pH and H ion concentration levels are the reasoning behind the
ergogenic benefits: if that data is not collected, results of the findings will be a mystery. The
variables studied are difficult to test, and the participants might have had trouble following the
lifting protocol. There were also differences in dosage taken between the studies. Based off the
Cameron, S.,Cooke, R., Brown, R., and Faibairn, K. (n. d.) study, people with larger stature
ingested a larger dosage due to their physical characteristics. It could be possible that the
participants in the present study did not take a high enough dosage.
The variables are linked to the framework and the concepts. They are defined and are
logical and consistent. The sample size was small and there was a wide age range. The small
sample size weakened the study and the study outcomes cannot apply to the larger population

15
nor can it be generalized. The instruments were not very well explained and some were unclear
in their usage. There were only a few that were reported. We can only assume the other
instruments used were reliable and valid. More tests would have to be run with a more detailed
instrumentation report in order to validate the study. The study is weak in the instrumentation
area. The data analysis is appropriate for the study and thorough. Even though many of the
findings were insignificant, they were still reported. Charts and graphs helped interpret data.
Conclusions of Sodium Bicarbonate on Resistance Training
Conclusions cannot be drawn from one study. The study was not valid, so therefore no
assumptions can be made based off the results. However, future studies should test strength in
a very controlled environment to avoid human error that might negatively affect the study.
Strength tests must be very controlled from procedure to the sampling method used. The next
study must be very well organized.
Sodium Bicarbonate on Chronic Ingestion
Many studies that have been conducted are based on the acute effects of sodium
bicarbonate. Most likely an athlete, if proven to benefit performance, will use the supplement
more than once. They would possibly use the supplement for everyday training to enhance the
work done during a workout and better their endurance, strength, and speed skills when in
competition. The following articles look into the effects of sodium bicarbonate and chronic
ingestion.

16
McNaughton , L., Backx., L., Plamer, G., and Strange, N. (1999) conduct another study
based on sodium bicarbonate. We can infer that since the author has already conducted one
valid study on the same supplement, even though it is an older article, he is familiar with the
subject and is reliable. The rapid use of glycogen as an energy store during high intensity
maximal effort results in an increased concentration of hydrogen ions in the muscle and blood.
Sodium bicarbonate may be beneficial to combat the rise of hydrogen ion in the muscle and
blood, and therefore delay the onset of fatigue. The time delay of sodium bicarbonate ingestion
prior to exercise has not been determined. McNaughton , L., Backx., L., Plamer, G., and Strange,
N. therefore evaluated whether sodium bicarbonate, when taken chronically over a period of 5
days, could alter resting plasma pH and improve anaerobic exercise performance of 60 second
duration (1999).
Eight male subjects around the age of 25 volunteered for the study. They were tested on
an electronically braked ergometer. Work and power data were downloaded to an on-line PC. It
was a crossover experimental design. The control was taken one month after the initial test.
The results show that ingestion of sodium bicarbonate over a period of 5 days can
improve short term high intensity exercise performance (McNaughton , L., Backx., L., Plamer,
G., and Strange, N. 1999). This suggest that the body stores extra bicarbonate and can use the
extra as a buffer to improve performance. The present study’s findings are similar to those of
other studies, resulting in improved performance on short-term high-intensity exercise. The
mechanism for improved performance is thought to be the greater buffering capacity for the H
ions caused by ingestion of sodium bicarbonate.

17
The outcomes of the study are strong and consistent with the results from other studies.
The size of the sample greatly weakens the study. Eight subjects are not enough to generalize
or validate the results. Mortality, inclusion, an exclusion criteria are not reported in the
literature. The sampling method is not mentioned either. The knowledge gap reveals that the
mechanism causing an ergogenic effect is not well known. McLaughton, L., uses the word
“probably” to describe why sodium bicarbonate improves performance. More research
investigating the mechanism of sodium bicarbonate ingestion is needed.
The design was appropriate but did not go into great detail. It was appropriate to
answer the study questions. The variables were clear and applied to the study. There is a logical
link between the design, sample and statistical analysis. Instrumentation was stated with
specific names yet not explained. Accuracy and error control were not stated. The information
given on the instruments was limited and weakened the study. The analysis was also not very
well explained but appropriate for the study. Tables and charts helped to visually show the data
analysis. Both instrument reporting and data analysis could have been stronger and therefore
weakened the study.
Edge, J., Bishop, D., and Goodman, C. (2006) conducted a study that investigates chronic
bicarbonate ingestion. Accumulation of hydrogen ions that cause fatigue affect oxidative
phosphorylation, enzyme activity, and ion regulation. Intra and extracellular buffer systems
work to reduce the buildup of hydrogen ions. An increase in the muscle buffering capacity, by
taking sodium bicarbonate may improve performance. There is limited research that does not
show how much sodium bicarbonate should be ingested. Some studies have shown

18
improvements in buffer capacity after intense interval training while others have not. The
purpose of the study was to determine effects of chronic ingestion of sodium bicarbonate
before training on the muscle buffer capacity.
Performance test were conducted on 16 female students between the age of 18 and 20
who were moderately trained in a variety of club level sports. Food diaries were kept so that
the subjects can recreate what they ate every time they tested. On the day of the test a muscle
biopsy was taken from the vastus lateralis immediately after exercise. It was a pre- and post-
test experimental design that was performed on a mechanically braked cycle ergometer.
In contrast to what was hypothesized, the results indicated H ion accumulation during
training is not an important factor in improving muscle buffer capacity. Edge, J., Bishop, D., and
Goodman, C. (2006) found that ph is not significantly altered during the beginning of intense
exercise, but towards the middle or end of the training session. There might also be changes in
intracellular level of proteins involved in ion regulation and mitochondrial respiration.
The sample did not include males and the subjects were not well trained, which
weakened the study. The sample size was small compared to the data they were testing. The
variables were hard to distinguish because they were testing so many different variables. It was
hard to decipher which ones were the most important to the study. Instruments were given
without an explanation which weakened the article. Validity has to be assumed with the little
information given about the instruments. Accuracy, precision and error control was not
addressed. Analysis techniques are clearly described. Analysis was correct and appropriate for
the article. The analysis procedure was appropriate for the study and the data collected. Tables

19
and charts were key very helpful in understanding the data analysis. The threats to validity are
the small sample size and the moderately trained subjects. These threats weaken the study and
therefore the results cannot be generalized to the athletic population.
Conclusion of the Chronic Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate
Based on the two articles regarding chronic sodium bicarbonate ingestion it can be
concluded that chronic ingestion can benefit sport performance. What needs to be investigated
next is the effect of chronic sodium bicarbonate ingestion on transport proteins and improved
potassium regulation. Research needs to be conducted regarding the other effects of sodium
bicarbonate. Chronic ingestion might not be healthy for the body. Research needs to be
conducted to find the limits of sodium bicarbonate benefits on the body. There might be an
adverse effect from chronic bicarbonate ingestion.
Sodium Bicarbonate with Specific Instrumentation
The instrumentation used to measure the effects of sodium bicarbonate on
performance is important. The more detailed the instrument is, the more detailed the data and
in result the analysis is detailed and has a greater validity. The instrumentation can strengthen
or weaken a study. The following articles use specific instrumentation to assess the effects of
sodium bicarbonate. The instrumentation used has an impact on the validity of the two studies.
Verbitsky, O., Mizrahi, J., Levin, M., and Isakov, E. (1997) begin their article with stating
that an accumulation of hydrogen ions in the muscle cell causes fatigue. To reduce hydrogen
ion concentration, lactic acid in the cell must also be reduced. Sodium bicarbonate facilitates an

20
efflux of hydrogen ions and lactic acid from the cell. Two components of fatigue have been
reported. One is due to intracellular acidosis, and another is due to changes in the excitation-
contraction coupling process. Most studies have focused on performance or maximum power
as a measurement, rather than muscle fatigue. Effect of sodium bicarbonate on process of
progressive muscle fatigue and recovery had not been studied. The purpose of the study was to
evaluate the effect of ingestion of sodium bicarbonate on muscle progressive fatigue as
induced by functional electrical stimulation and on muscle recovery after intensive cycling
exercise.
There were six healthy and active male subjects that took part in the cross sectional
study. The procedure is where the importance of the instrument use is shown to be important.
Each subject performed three different tests. Each test started with 2 minutes of functional
electrical stimulation (FES) of the right quadriceps femoris muscle. The FES ensured that the
muscle was fatigued and preloaded before the cycling was tested. The knee torque was
continuously monitored using a specially designed testing apparatus. The subjects sat on a
specially designed chair while the transcutaneous electrical stimulation was applied through a
pair of rubber electrodes. The torque of the knee is a result of activation of the quadriceps
femoris by the electrodes.
Higher peak and residual torques resulted from supramaximal load combined with acute
ingestion of sodium bicarbonate. Due to the special instrumentation, “that acute ingestion fo
NAHCO is an effective means for increasing the torques in isometric contraction, thus reducing

21
muscle fatigue an enhancing recovery ”Verbitsky, O., Mizrahi, J., Levin, M., and Isakov, E.
(1997).
Procedure was very detailed and linked to the purpose of the study. The procedure was
difficult to follow in the reading but it did apply to the concepts and framework. The design
was linked to the purpose of the study and applied to the concepts and framework. The study
sample did not have much information given about it. It was very small and the age was high
compared to most athletes who are involved in sports and use supplements such as sodium
bicarbonate, therefore making the study hard to generalize. The variables were hard to define
but did relate to the purpose of the study. The instrument used in the study was given very
specifically. The “specially constructed testing apparatus” was given much detail in an
understandable way. Precision, sensitivity, accuracy and error control was also given along with
how the data was recorded. Further studies are needed with the same instrumentation to
verify the validity of the instrument. The data analysis was appropriate yet unclear even with
the use of tables and charts. The data analysis was hard to understand and displayed an unclear
meaning.
Induced alkalosis leads to enhanced muscle glycolitic adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
which may increase glycogen utilization and allow a greater capacity for high intensity exercise
(Raymer, G., Marsh, G., Kowalchuk, T., and Thompson, R. 2004). This suggests that sodium
bicarbonate ingestion would result in a greater contribution of anaerobic energy production
during exercise. Muscle biopsy can provide clear understanding of what is taking place inside
the muscle cell. There are inherent limitations of frequent sampling and poor time resolution

22
associated with muscle biopsy analysis. The mechanism for sodium bicarbonate to enhance
intense exercise is not clearly elucidated. The purpose of the study was to clarify changes
occurring in intracellular metabolism with exercise during induced alkalosis. Raymer, G., Marsh,
G., Kowalchuk, T., and Thompson, R. used phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy (P-
MRS) and venous blood sampling to study the effects of sodium bicarbonate ingestion on the
metabolic and acid-base response to incremental forearm wrist flexion exercise (1997).
Six healthy moderately active males volunteered for the quasi-experimental crossover
study design. The subjects were studied twice; once under control and again with NaHCO
supplementation. Exercise protocol was identical for each test which consisted of progressive
time to fatigue and peak power output during ramp exercise to fatigue in the P-MRS and blood
sampling exercise series was significant between the control and induced alkalosis group. None
of the subjects were trained in specific sports.
The alkaline group was significantly different from the control group in forearm muscle
intracellular pH during incremental wrist flexion exercise to fatigue. There was a significant
difference between the alkaline and control group in the plasma lactate threshold in the initial
phase. Forearm venous plasma pH during incremental wrist flexion exercise to fatigue was
significantly different between control and alkaline group. Forearm muscle to venous H ion
gradient during incremental wrist flexion exercise to fatigue is significantly different from
control to alkaline group wrist flexion exercise to volitional fatigue.
The design was appropriate for the study purpose and to answer the study questions.
The design is valid; the only percievedproblem would be in recreating the study because the

23
instruments used were all custom made. It would be hard to oppose the finding from another
study without the same instruments, therefore weakening the study. The sample size was small
and none of the subjects were athletes. This will also weaken the study because the use of
sodium bicarbonate is ergogenic for athletes, so athletes should be the ones tested. Also there
are no females in the study. The variables are appropriated for the study design and purpose;
they are defined and consistent. Instrumentation used in the study was very clear and
thorough. Although the ergometer was custom built, enough detail was given to ensure the
reliability of the instrument. Very specific details were addressed so that the instrumentation
was understood, as well as precision and accuracy protocols. More tests should be done
however, to truly make sure the custom built ergometer is valid. The data analysis was
appropriate and interpreted correctly. All results were reported and tables and charts were also
given.
Conclusion of instrumentation
Instrumentation use proved to be beneficial while studying the effects of sodium
bicarbonate ingestion. The specific tools used in the previous articles helped with research and
might have had a big impact on the results. Even though the results that come from a study
with specific instrumentation are difficult to compare, new instrumentation is important in
advancing knowledge and technology.
Sodium Bicarbonate and Specific Sports:
As discussed earlier, sodium bicarbonate might be a useful ergogenic aid. If the claims
are true, athletes might turn to sodium bicarbonate to accelerate their performance in

24
competition. Not all athletes train and perform at the same level. A professional power lifter
will not have the same conditioning regime as that of a cross country runner. The power lifter
will focus on explosiveness, strength, and power while a cross country runner will focus on
keeping pace and endurance. The same is true with the supplements an athlete chooses to
take. An endurance athlete will not take a supplement that claims to aid in power and strength,
rather they would take a supplement that will aid in endurance and a delayed time to fatigue.
That is why it is important to test potential ergogenic aids on specific sports. An aid might find
to be useful to a certain athlete and useless to another athlete of a different sport. The
following articles investigate sodium bicarbonate and its role as a supplement with specific
sports.
Zajac, A., Cholewa, J., Poprzecki, S Waskiewicz,Z., and Langfort, J. studied sodium
bicarbonate on youth swimmers (2009). Sprint athletes rely on anaerobic glycolysis as the
primary source of fuel. The total capacity of the glycolytic pathway is limited by the
concentration of hydrogen ions which accumulates in the muscle due to intense exercise. The
accumulation of hydrogen ions in the cell causes the muscle cells to become acidic; acidity
limits the muscles contractibility and in result decreases the intensity of work done by the
muscle. The body’s first line of defense against the hydrogen ion accumulation is naturally
occurring bicarbonates. Sodium bicarbonate as a supplement is thought to help with the body’s
natural defense and work as a buffer. The increased bicarbonate reserve will allow the
hydrogen ions to leave the muscle cells at a faster rate and therefore the accumulation of
hydrogen ions that cause fatigue will take longer to build up in the cell and delay the onset of
fatigue during anaerobic exercise. Prior studies that tested that hypothesis have been

25
conducted with untrained athletes. No studies prior have focused on young athletes and the
sport of swimming starts early in the athlete’s life. Swimmers begin intensive training as early
as 7 and 8 years old. The young swimmers usually take part in the same training regime as do
adult and professional swimmers, that is why it is important for research to be conducted on a
younger population of athletes. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of oral
administration of sodium bicarbonate on swim performance in competitive youth male
swimmers.
Eight competitive youth male swimmers, all of whom were around 15 years of age, took
part in the double-blind experiment. Each subject completed two test trials of 4x50 meter
freestyle swim with one minute rest between each sprint. Swim times, plasma lactate, standard
bicarbonate, bases excess, and the effect of the sodium bicarbonate were variables tested.
Blood samples were drawn from finger three times during the trial; upon arrival, 60 minutes
after ingestion, and during the first minute after the time trial.
Intake of sodium bicarbonate in youth swimmers can significantly increase work
capacity during short intensive interval training. It can also improve sprint performance at the
50 meter freestyle swim (Zajac, A., Cholewa, J., Poprzecki, S Waskiewicz,Z., & Langfort, J. 2009).
The study was narrow in scope and was not trivial. The problem is very relevant to
sports nutrition and any dietitian working with athletes. The purpose statement is very specific
and easily guides the reader. The statement is to the point and very clearly states purpose and
the population as to whom the study will relate. The statement was good and very strong. The
problem statement is not as clearly stated, but is very easy to find in the literature. It is a big

26
problem; therefore it takes more than a statement to explain to the reader. This was a very
researchable problem due to the fact that swimming is already based off of measurement of
time. The framework is not clearly stated but does help to define the concepts of interest in
the study. The framework is directly linked to the purpose. There is no visual of the framework
but it is linked to variables in the study. The concepts are faster speed in the water; increased
ph, increased lost exercise plasma lactate concentration, and increased blood concentration of
HCO₃. The framework is related to any athlete and therefore those who care after the athlete
are also related. The knowledge is growing but athletes will try the anything that promises
results so a sports dietitian needs to have the latest information on a supplement, especially
ergogenic supplements. The hypothesis was unclear but questions that were raised were
directly linked to the purpose of the study as well as the framework and concepts of the study.
Study design was appropriate and was appropriate to answer the stated purpose. The validity
was strong and no major threats were discovered. The sample size was small and weakens the
study but the participants were great subjects for the study. They did not study female athletes
which show bias. The variables were directly related to the purpose and appropriate for the
study. The article gave specific instrumentation, yet did not clearly state the way the
instruments were being used which weakened the article. The analysis was clear and
appropriate for the study. Significant and insignificant findings were included in the analysis.
Tables and charts accompanied the analysis and strengthened the article. The analysis was
interpreted correctly and the analysis techniques were clearly described.
As shown in some research, alkalosis has been shown to cause a special effect in
predominantly upper limb exercises (Artioli, G., Coelho, Benatti, F., Gailey, A., Guallno, B., &

27
Lancha Jr., A. 2006). Although there is no consensus in the literature concerning the use of
alkaline substances as an ergogenic aid on anaerobic exercise, it is thought that an increase in
blood pH will provide delayed fatigue and improve exercise. Since judo is a predominantly
upper limb sport, it is important for the sport of judo to determine whether or not sodium
bicarbonate can be used as a reliable ergogenic aid and benefit the athlete by improving
performance in fights (Artioli, G., Coelho, Benatti, F., Gailey, A., Guallno, B., and Lancha Jr., A.
2006).
There were seven male judo fighters chosen to participate in the study. The inclusion criteria
included to be between the age of 18 and 30 years of age, be dedicated to judo training for at
least 6 weekly hours, a minimum brown belt graduation, and regularly compete in regional or
higher championships. There was one case of mortality due to an injury. The participants were
involved in two tests; each test consisted of three, five minute fights with a fifteen minute
recovery time between each fight. The participants fought the same competitor each time and
the competitor was within 10% of the participant’s body weight. Blood collections occurred in
rest after ingestion of substance, after warm up, after each fight and 3, 5, 7, 10 and 15 minutes
after each fight. The study adopted a counterbalanced double-blind model.
The variables are linked to the concepts of the framework. The treatment is clearly specified
and is appropriate to the study purpose. The design is appropriate to answer the purpose and
questions. The design was valid and very well thought through; there was not much room for
bias. There was a logical link between design and sampling method. The sampling size was very
small and weakened the study. There was also somewhat variability in the selection criteria. A

28
generalization of the results cannot be made, and the sample size does not represent the whole
population. The instrumentation was explained but not very understandable. The instruments
measure the variables of the study. The variables and methods of collection are described. The
recording strategies’ were briefly stated. Analysis techniques are described and appropriate to
answer each question. The presentations of the results are somewhat understandable and use
table sand charts to help visually. The analyses were interpreted correctly and both insignificant
and significant results were addressed.
Wu, C., Shih, M., Yang, C., Huang, M., Chang, C., researched sodium bicarbonate ingestion on
tennis performance (2010). Tennis consists of short bouts of high energy followed my times of
recovery between points and games. Repetitive short-term high-intensity efforts throughout a
tennis match can result in significant neuromuscular fatigue. The neuromuscular fatigue is what
is thought to contribute to decreased stroke accuracy and velocity. Sodium bicarbonate has
been previously shown to aid in the performance of short-term high-intensity exercise, single
bout high-intensity exercise, 1 hour competitive cycling, and 30 minutes of various ball games.
Several studies have failed to find ergogenic effect of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on
exhaustive resistance exercise. Recent findings have suggested that sodium bicarbonate might
help in alleviating exercise-induced impairment in the neural functions. Wu, C., Shih, M., Yang,
C., Huang, M., Chang, C., hypothesized that sodium bicarbonate supplementation may prevent
the fatigue- induced decline in skilled tennis performance (2010). The purpose of the study was
to investigate the effect of NAHCO supplementation on skilled tennis performance after a
simulated match.

29
There were 9 male Division I college tennis players who were recruited and participated in
the randomized cross-over, placebo-controlled, double-blind design study. There were two
experimental trails that alternated the subjects with placebo or bicarbonate. Subjects
consumed the same exact diet two days before each trial. The Loughborough Tennis Skill Test
was used to assess the subject’s accuracy, consistency of service, forehand stroke to both sides
of the court, and backhand ground stroke to both sides of the court. A simulated match lasting
approximately 50 minutes consisted of 12 games, receiving and returning, and the ball was fed
by a ball serving machine. Heart rate was monitored throughout the study period by a short
ranged telemeter. The rate of perceived exertion was recorded using a Borg scale. Blood
samples were taken from a forearm vein by a trained nurse and an autoanalyzer and blood gas
analyzer was used to measure lactate, pH, hemoglobin, and base excess.
The results show that NaHCO supplementation can prevent the decline in skilled tennis
performance (Wu, C., Shih, M., Yang, C., Huang, M., Chang, C., 2010).The treatment is clearly
specified and is appropriate for the study. The design is appropriate to answer the purpose and
question. The design is logically linked between the design, sampling method and statistical
analyses. The sample size is very limited. It is appropriate for the study problem and purpose,
yet is too small which weakens the study. More tests would have to be run with a larger sample
size to validate the study outcome. The instrumentation was not explained. Specific names
were given, but they were not well addressed; therefore weakening the study. The instruments’
reliability has to be assumed. Recruitment method no t reported on.

30
Future testing should test other tennis skills with measurement of stroke velocity and
running speed. Research should also investigate neuromuscular functions and psychological
variables such as reactive, anticipatory, and decision-making capacities (Wu, C., Shih, M., Yang,
C., Huang, M., Chang, C., 2010).
Sodium bicarbonate on Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Even if proven to be an ergogenic aid, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO), might not be a
good supplement for athletes to take due to its side effects. If ingested, sodium bicarbonate
can cause gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. If an athlete chooses to take NaHCO as a supplement
to better their performance, but experiences GI discomfort, instead of the performance
enhancing affect they predicted, their performance might be negatively altered. Depending on
how strong the symptoms are, the athlete might perform better without the use of the
supplement. GI comfort is important to the athlete’s performance, and if a supplement causes
GI stress the athlete might perform better without the added benefits of the ergogenic aid. The
athlete must weigh the benefits of the supplement and decide what would be better for them
as an individual and their overall performance in their sport.
While sodium bicarbonate is in the middle of discussion related to its ergogenic effects
on sports, there are other issues to be noted. Sodium bicarbonate ingestion has been
associated with mild gastrointestinal discomfort with reported symptoms including belching,
stomach cramping, bowel urgency, flatulence, diarrhea, bloating, stomach ache and vomiting
Cameron, S., Cooke, R., Brown, R., & Fairbairn, K.2010). Prior to Cameron, S., Cooke, R., Brown,
R., & Fairbairn, K. there had been only two studies investigating incidences of GI discomfort

31
associated with bicarbonate ingestion, both studies had been on athletes of low to medium
body mass. Rugby players tend to be larger in statue then the general athlete, and due to their
large stature they would need to ingest larger amounts of sodium bicarbonate to meet the
recommended dosage. The purpose of Cameron et al. study is to investigate physiological
responses, GI tolerability, and ergogenic effect of 0.3 g.kg body weight (BW) of NaHCO on
repeated sprint ability (RSA) in well trained rugby players.
There were 25 male rugby players recruited from Otago Sevens, Otago Focus Squad and
Otago Rugby Academy in Dunedin, New Zealand who participated in the randomized, double-
blind, placebo controlled, crossover trial. Participants were randomly assigned to consume
NaHCO or placebo for initial testing followed by a 7 day washout period. The testing was
replicated in opposite conditions under a crossover design so that each participant was each
owns control. Participants completed GI discomfort questionnaires at baseline, 60, 90, and 120
minutes post ingestion. Each participant followed a rugby-specific warm up and a nine minute
exercise simulating rugby game play followed by a five minute rugby specific repeated sprint
test (RSST). Immediately following the RSST blood was collected from the participants and the
individual participants rated their perceived exertion on a modified 10 point Borg scale. The
participants then had 24 hours to complete a chronic GI discomfort symptom questionnaire.
The Average age of participants was 21.6 years, the average height was 1.82 meters and
the average weight was 95 kilograms. There were no significant differences on performance
outcomes between the placebo and NaHCO conditions. NaHCO supplementation did increase
bicarbonate concentration and maintain pH during the high intensity exercise. There was

32
however a significantly higher incidence rate of belching, stomach ache, diarrhea, stomach
bloating and nausea in the NaHCO group compared to placebo. Also the severity of stomach
cramps, belching, stomach ache, bowel urgency, vomiting, stomach bloating, diarrhea and
flatulence reported in the NaHCO group was significantly worse after ingestion compared to
placebo.
The important findings of the study show that due to the higher incidence and severity
of GI discomfort after the consumption of NaHCO, physical performance of some individuals
might be negatively impacted. The study also shows that performance is not enhanced in well
trained rugby players, rather the NaHCO acts as a buffer against lactate buildup within the cell,
not necessarily an ergogenic affect. Therefore, individual athletes must decide what is more
important to their performance. Large athletes with higher body weight must take into
consideration the negative effects of sodium bicarbonate on the GI tract because large athletes
must consume larger amounts of NaHCO to meet the recommended dosage (Cameron, S.,
Cooke, R., Brown, R., & Fairbairn, K. 2010).
The problem statement was clearly made and related to the purpose of the study,
although the purpose investigated more than what the problem statement and the background
literature discussed. The background and framework should directly apply to the problem and
purpose statement, and cover the information needed for the research. In the Cameron et al.
study, the background literature discussed both the potential NaHCO ingestion benefits on the
rugby player’s performance, and the negative GI effects of NaHCO ingestion. However, the
problem statement only addressed the GI tolerability of ingested NaHCO, not the ergogenic

33
potential. The literature was very easy to understand and every section was clearly labeled to
avoid confusion. Although the study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled
crossover trial, there were still weaknesses. Based on the rule of thumb and the number of
variables being tested, the sample size is small. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were not given.
The sample size does not allow for the findings to be generalized. Even though the article and
problem was sport specific and would not necessarily relate to other sports, the small sample
size has limited generalization even for rugby players. The anthropometrical and body
composition measures were very similar with a small standard deviation, so that the findings of
the study could only be generalized to male rugby players who happen to have the same
physical characteristics. The Experimental testing protocol was clearly outlined in a figure
within the literature and helped with the understandability of the study. The visual aid of the
protocol strengthened and showed the organization of the study. The experimental testing
protocol was the strength of the study, however the findings would be stronger and more valid
if the tests were repeated. An increased number of repeated tests would allow for a larger
collection of data and the analysis would be strengthened by the quantity of data collected. The
outcomes of the analysis would be more reliable if there was a larger data pool to begin with.
The GI discomfort was measured on a Borg scale. This limits the results and reliability of the
questionnaire and therefore the study in general. The perceived exertion was also measured on
a 10 point Borg scale. A 10 point Borg scale, although easier for the participant to complete,
does not give the participant a true voice nor does it give the researcher strong ground to stand
on concerning the questionnaire. This will in turn limit the validity of the data collected and the
importance of the findings.

34
Conclusion
The research articles have shown that there is still much research to be conducted on
sodium bicarbonate ingestion as an ergogenic aid. All twelve of the articles had a very low
sample size. This was one of the biggest problems, because even if the evidence from three
studies showed the same results, each study still had questionable validity due to the sample
size. Many of the studies did not report on sample recruitment methods. They also did not
report on mortality or inclusion and exclusion criteria. The samples and the information given
about them was a weak point for all twelve of the articles. Future studies should focus on a
valid sample sizes so that the evidence can be strong and validity of results will not be
questioned.
More study’s need to be done on trained athletes. If the research purpose is to test a
potential ergogenic aid, test should be done on samples that are athletes and likely to use
ergogenic aids. This will also limit human error in exercise tests. When athletes are used for
testing, the procedure is sounder because it eliminates the possibility of human error due to a
subject’s lack of experience with exercise or competitive, high intensity situations. Untrained
subjects might react differently under testing conditions compared to an athlete who should be
use to high stress environments.
More studies need to be done on similar subjects and sports so that comparisons can be
drawn between the studies. It is hard to compare results between a tennis player and a
swimmer. The results might conclude the same thing, but the sports are very different and the

35
body will be performing differently which will affect the results. Comparison studies will also
help validate certain studies because another study will show similar results.
Based of the articles, sodium bicarbonate does benefit sport performance in high
intensity short exercises as well as longer moderate intensity exercise. The ergogenic effects are
moderate and do not dramatically improve performance, rather it helps athletes stay at a high
intensity for a longer period of time due to the muscle buffering capacity.

36
References
Artioli, G., Coelho, Benatti, F., Gailey, A., Guallno, B., & Lancha Jr., A. (2006). Can sodium
bicarbonate intake contribute to judo fights performance? Rev Bras Med Esporte,
12,331-335.
Cameron, S., Cooke, R., Brown, R., & Fairbairn, K. (2010). Enhancing the buffering capacity in
rugby union players: Tolerability and performance. Sparc Final Report.
Edge, J., Bishop, D., & Goodman, C. (2006). Effects of chronic NaHCO ingestion during interval
training on changes to muscle buffer capacity, metabolism, and short-term endurance
performance. Journal of Applied Physiology, 101, 918-925.
dio:10.1152/japplphysiol.01534.2005.
Lavender, G., & Bird, S. R. Effect of sodium bicarbonate ingestion upon repeated sprints. British
Journal of Sports Medicine, 23 (1), 41-45.
McNaughton, L., Backx, K., Palmer, G., & Strange, N. (1999). Effects of chronic bicarbonate
ingestion on the performace of high-intensity work. European Journal of Applied
Physiology, 80, 333-336.
McNaughton, L., Dalton, B., & Palmer, G. (1999). Sodium bicarbonate can be used as an
ergogenic aid in high intensity, competitive cycle ergometry of 1 h duration. European
Journal of Applied Physiology,80, 64-69.

37
Mirasol, F., (2009, Aug 21). Sports supplements grow despite controversy: A test of endurance.
Retrieved from http://icis.com/articles/2009/08/24/9242007/sports-supplements-grow-
despite-contriversy.html
Raymer, G., Marsh, G., Kowalchuk, T., & Thompson, R. (2004). Etabolic effects of induced
alkalosis during progressive forearm exercise to fatigue. Journal of Applied Physiology,
96, 2050-2056. doi:10.1152/japplphysoiol.01261.2003.
Rakhee, D. (2008, Sept). Sports nutrition and high energy supplement: The global Market.
Retrieved from http://bccresearch.com/report.html
Singer, N., Schmidt, M., (2009, July). Supplements for athletes draw alert from F.D.A.. The New
York Times. Retrieved from http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B02E
7DD1730F93 AA15754C0A96F9C8B63&scp=2&sq=athletes
andsupplements&st=cse&pagewanted=1
Verbitsky, O., Mizrahi, J., Levin, M., & Isakov, E. (1997). Effect of ingested sodium bicarbonate
on muscle force, fatigue, and recovery. Journal of Applied Physiology, 83(2), 333-337.
Wollner, M., Santos, E., Jefferson, D., & Novaes, S. (2008). Effects of bicarbonate
supplementation on muscular strength. Journal of Exercise Phisiology, 11(6), 25-33.
Wu, C., Shih, M., Yang, C., Huang, M., Chang, C., (2010). Sodium bicarbonate supplementation
prevents skilled tennis performance decline after a simulated match. Journal of the
International Society of Sports Nutrition. 7(33).

38
Zajac, A., Cholewa, J., Poprzecki, S Waskiewicz,Z., & Langfort, J. (2009). Effects of sodium
bicarbonate ingestion on swim Performance in youth athletes. Journal of Sports Science
and Medicine, 8, 45-50.
Zinner, C., Wahl, P., Achtzehn, S., Sperlich, B., & Mester, J. (2011). Effects of
bicarbonateingestion and high intensity exercise on lactate and H ion distribution in
different blood compartments. European Journal of Applied Physiology. doi:
10.1007/s00421-010-1800-4.

20 pager

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

Viewers also liked

Viewers also liked (10)

Similar to 20 pager

Similar to 20 pager (11)

More from akliewer

More from akliewer (14)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

20 pager