ABSTRACT
AIM: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of 3 d of creatine supplementation on thermoregulation and isokinetic muscular performance. METHODS: Fourteen males performed two exercise bouts following 3 d of creatine supplementation and placebo. Subjects exercised for 60 min at 60-65% of VO2max in the heat followed by isokinetic muscular performance at 60, 180, and 300°·s(-1). Dependent variables for pre- and postexercise included nude body weight, urine specific gravity, and serum creatinine levels. Total body water, extracellular water and intracellular water were measured pre-exercise. Core temperature was assessed every 5 min during exercise. Peak torque and Fatigue Index were used to assess isokinetic muscular performance. RESULTS: Core temperature increased during the run for both conditions. Total body water and extracellular water were significantly greater (P<0.05) following creatine supplementation. No significant difference (P>0.05) was found between conditions for intracellular water, nude body weight, urine specific gravity, and serum creatinine. Pre-exercise scores for urine specific gravity and serum creatinine were significantly less (P<0.05) versus post-exercise. No significant differences (P>0.05) were found in peak torque values or Fatigue Index between conditions for each velocity. A significant (P<0.05) overall velocity effect was found for both flexion and extension. As velocity increased, mean peak torque values decreased. CONCLUSION: Three d of creatine supplementation does not affect thermoregulation during submaximal exercise in the heat and is not enough to elicit an ergogenic effect for isokinetic muscle performance following endurance activity.
