Sürdürülebilir Kalkınma Amaçları

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Comparison of plyometric repeated sprint and plyometric aerobic training on physical performance in youth soccer players

    Selmi, Mohamed Amin; Hammami, Raouf; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Duncan, Michael; Sassi, Radhouane Haj; Morgans, Ryland; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Bragazzi, Nicola Luigi

    High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and repeated-sprint sets (RSS) are established conditioning methods in soccer, yet their integration with plyometric training among highly trained youth soccer players remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of an 8-week program combining plyometric training with either RSS (PLYO-RSS) or HIIT (PLYO-HIIT) on physical fitness in young soccer players. Twenty-nine male players (14-15 years) were randomly assigned to PLYO-RSS (n = 14) or PLYO-HIIT (n = 15). Both interventions lasted 20 minutes per session and replaced part of regular soccer training. Physical fitness assessments included countermovement jump (CMJ), 15-s repeated vertical jumps (15''RJ), five-jump test (5JT), 10 m and 30 m sprint, maximal aerobic speed (MAS), VO2max, and repeated sprint performance (total sprint time, best sprint, fatigue index). Physiological markers (lactate, rating of perceived exertion, and HRmax) were also monitored. Significant improvements over time were observed in muscle power, sprint speed, aerobic capacity, and repeated-sprint ability (p <= 0.001; eta & sup2;p = 0.339-0.489). However, no main effects or group & times; time interaction effects were observed, indicating no evidence of differential responses between the two training modes. In conclusion, integrating plyometric training with either RSS or HIIT effectively enhances physical fitness in highly trained youth soccer players, offering flexible options for training prescription.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    YOLOv8 computer vision for automated offside detection in professional football validated through supervised learning

    Abdel-Fattah, Abdul-Rahman; Belhaouari, Samir Brahim; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Muntean, Raul Ioan; Dhahbi, Wissem; Dergaa, Ismail; Omri, Abdelfatteh El

    Offside calls are integral to maintaining fairness and competitive integrity in football, yet current officiating processes are constrained by limitations in accuracy despite technological advancements. This investigation developed and validated an automated offside detection system using YOLOv8 object detection architecture to address documented limitations of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) systems in offside decision accuracy. Supervised learning validation employed 400 annotated instances from professional match footage. The YOLOv8 medium variant was configured for four-class detection, with a focus on extreme player positions, reducing computational complexity by approximately 70% relative to comprehensive player tracking while accepting accuracy trade-offs in marginal scenarios. The system was optimized for computational efficiency through highly accurate tracking of player positions. Data were partitioned into 40% (n = 160) for training and 60% (n = 240) for testing, with 5-fold cross-validation. The automated system achieved robust performance metrics across 240 test instances: overall accuracy of 83.0%, precision of 85.0%, recall of 87.0%, and F1-score of 86.0%. Confusion matrix analysis revealed true positives (n = 130), true negatives (n = 70), false positives (n = 22), and false negatives (n = 18). Individual case analysis demonstrated 80% agreement with ground truth classifications. System performance significantly exceeded the random classification baseline (p < 0.001). The strategic extreme player tracking approach achieved substantial computational efficiency while maintaining decision accuracy across diverse match scenarios. A YOLOv8-based offside detection system demonstrates proof-of-concept feasibility for decision-support applications in football officiating. Performance (83% accuracy, 95% CI: 79-87%) on 240 test instances remains below professional benchmarks (> 93%), with single-camera constraints and limited dataset size restricting generalizability to proof-of-concept validation rather than operational deployment.

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Short-Term Inspiratory Muscle Training Enhances Functional and Metabolic Health in Older Adults

    Konca, Erkan; Yilmaz, Coskun; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Arslan, Ayla; Ocak, Hakan; Karakulak, Izzet; Sari, Rifat; Uzun, Recep Nur; Soylu, Hakan Huseyin

    Background: Age-related declines in respiratory muscle strength and ventilatory efficiency can impair functional capacity and metabolic health in older adults. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proposed as a practical intervention to counteract these changes, yet its systemic effects remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of short-term IMT on functional capacity, diaphragm thickness, and liver tissue characteristics in healthy elderly men. Methods: Thirty community-dwelling men aged 60-80 years were randomly assigned to an IMT or control group. The IMT group performed four weeks of breathing exercises using a POWERbreathe (R) device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure, with a weekly 10% increase in pressure. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the six-minute walk test (6MWT), diaphragm thickness and liver density via computed tomography, and quality of life (QoL; SF-12). Results: Four weeks of inspiratory muscle training significantly improved diaphragm thickness (11.7%), fatty liver density (FLD) (+16.7%), and six-minute walk performance (+5.3%), with large time x group effects favoring the IMT group. While the physical quality of life showed modest, comparable improvements, mental health outcomes demonstrated a moderate, time-dependent improvement without a significant group-by-time interaction. Conclusions: Short-term IMT improved diaphragmatic function and functional capacity in older men and was associated with favorable changes in a liver-related biomarker; however, given that only a single liver-related metric was assessed, these findings should not be interpreted as evidence of overall improvements in liver health.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Multi-joint isokinetic strength profiling as a predictor of vertical jump performance in elite freestyle wrestlers A cross-sectional principal component analysis

    Sever, Ozan; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Dhahbi, Wissem; Yilmaz, Hasan Huseyin; Özdemir, Kubra; Yazici, Ahmet Gokhan; Jalalov, Ferhad; Günay, Ahmet Rahmi; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Stefanica, Valentina

    Wrestling requires coordinated lower-limb strength for explosive techniques. While isokinetic testing isolates joint-specific strength and countermovement jumps assess functional power, comprehensive multi-joint assessments with advanced factor analysis remain unexplored in elite wrestlers. Twenty-one national-level male freestyle wrestlers (22.3 +/- 2.8 years; 76.2 +/- 14.7 kg) completed cross-sectional neuromuscular assessments. Isokinetic concentric strength testing at 60 degrees/s evaluated hip, knee, and ankle joint functions bilaterally using an Isomed 2000 dynamometer. Vertical jump power was assessed through countermovement jumps under bilateral and unilateral conditions using the Optojump system. All strength and power variables were normalized to fat-free mass determined via air displacement plethysmography. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlations with Benjamini-Hochberg correction, stepwise multiple regression, and principal component analysis. Bilateral jump performance correlated strongly with knee extension (R = 0.798, P <.001) and hip extension strength (R = 0.664, P =.001), with combined predictors explaining 68.8% of variance (F-2,F-18 = 19.8, P <.001). Principal component analysis identified a primary extensor factor (hip and knee extension, 52.6% variance) and an auxiliary factor (ankle plantar flexion and hip adduction, 19.0% variance). Unilateral jump models demonstrated lower explanatory power (dominant: 39.8%, non-dominant: 25.7%). Multi-joint isokinetic strength assessment, particularly hip and knee extension capacity, provides a robust prediction of vertical jump performance in elite wrestlers. The identified primary extensor strength factor represents a fundamental neuromuscular capacity underlying explosive lower-limb function, supporting targeted strength development strategies for wrestling-specific performance enhancement.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    The Effects of Vertıcal and Horızontal Statıc Core Strength Exercıses on Athletıc Performance ın Young Female Handball Players

    Bayrakdaroğlu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Edis, Çağlar

    Core exercises are typically performed in the horizontal plane, whereas athletic activities such as running, jumping, and change of direction (COD) occur in both vertical and horizontal planes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of static core exercises performed in the vertical and horizontal planes on physical performance. Twenty-four female handball players voluntarily participated in the study and were randomly assigned to either a vertical static core (VSC) exercise group (n=12; age: 17,75±0,99 years, height: 171,00±8,66 cm, weight: 66,08±5,97 kg) or a horizontal static core (HSC) exercise group (n=12; age: 17,75±0,75 years, height: 166,75±13,71 cm, weight: 63,33±6,74 kg). A two-group experimental design with a pretest-posttest model was employed. The core exercise protocol consisted of prone plank, side plank (right and left), supine bridge, and bird dog exercises, performed three times per week for eight weeks. Before and after the intervention, participants were evaluated for isometric core strength, 5-20 meter linear sprint performance, vertical jump height, and three different COD performance tests. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test to assess the normality of the distribution. Paired samples t-tests were used to analyze differences between the groups’ pretest and posttest results based on normality assumptions. For between-group comparisons, independent samples t-test was used. The results revealed no statistically significant differences between the VSC and HSC groups in terms of post-exercise performance improvements (p>0.05). However, significant improvements in physical performance parameters were observed within both groups from pre- to post-intervention (p

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Diaphragm and Abdominal Wall Muscle Thickness with Fatty Liver Density in Elderly Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Gökçelik, Eda; Yilmaz, Coskun; Budak, Cemallettin; Soylu, Hakan Huseyin; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Muntean, Raul Ioan; Küçük, Hamza; Ceylan, Levent

    Background and Objectives: Post-menopausal estrogen decline is considered a contributing factor to sarcopenia, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may provide benefits in this demographic. This study examined the impact of a four-week IMT program on diaphragm thickness, abdominal wall muscle thickness (AWMT; transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique), and liver fat percentage in healthy elderly women. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six women aged 60-80 years were randomly assigned to an IMT group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 13). The IMT group used the PowerBreathe (R) Classic device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), with weekly increments of 10%. Training was performed twice daily, five days per week, with 30 breathing cycles per session (60 per day). The control group maintained their usual routines. AWMT, diaphragm thickness (DT), and fatty liver density (FLD) were measured by a radiologist before and after the intervention. Results: After four weeks, the IMT group showed significant improvements in all parameters compared to controls. Mid-diaphragm thickness (MDT) increased by 11.44% (effect size (ES) = 0.358, p < 0.001) versus 0.76% in controls (p = 0.271). Posterior diaphragm thickness (PDT) improved by 7.48% (ES = 0.282, p < 0.001) versus 0.38% (p = 0.564). Right AWMT increased by 12.7% (ES = 0.492, p < 0.001) compared to 0.10% (p = 0.872), and left AWMT increased by 9.93% (ES = 0.395, p < 0.001) versus 2.64% (p = 0.014). FLD improved by 11.79% (ES = 0.959, p < 0.001) in the IMT group, while the control group showed no meaningful change (-0.13%, p = 0.847). Conclusions: A short-term IMT protocol significantly enhanced diaphragm and AWMT and reduced liver fat in elderly women. These findings support the use of IMT as a simple, non-invasive intervention to preserve musculoskeletal and metabolic health in aging populations.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • Derleme MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Synergistic Effects of Exercise and Nano-Curcumin Supplementation in Women with Lifestyle-Related Diseases: A Scoping Review

    Cherappurath, Nafih; Navaf, Muhammed; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Elayaraja, Masilamani; Sunooj, Kappat Valiyapeediyekkal; Satheesan, Saranya T.; Thoompenthodi, Muhammed Ali; Perumbalath, Shamshadali; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Muntean, Raul Ioan

    Background/Objectives: Lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and osteoarthritis disproportionately affect women due to hormonal, metabolic, and socio-cultural factors. Emerging evidence suggests that combining structured exercise with nano-curcumin, a bioavailable phytochemical formulation with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, may provide synergistic benefits. This scoping review systematically synthesizes available evidence on the combined effects of nano-curcumin supplementation and exercise interventions on health outcomes in women with lifestyle-related diseases. Methods: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the PRISMA-ScR framework, a comprehensive database search was conducted in March 2025 and updated in June 2025. Records were retrieved from Scopus (n = 30), Web of Science (n = 22), PubMed (n = 18), and other sources (n = 71), yielding a total of 141 studies. After screening and deduplication, eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. All the studies were conducted in Iran with small sample sizes (12-53 participants) and short intervention durations (6-16 weeks). Therefore, the current evidence is geographically and demographically limited. Results: Across the included trials, the combined interventions produced additive or synergistic improvements in oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, lipid and glucose metabolism, cardiovascular function, pulmonary capacity, muscle fitness, and psychological outcomes (e.g., depression). When paired with nano-curcumin supplementation at different concentrations, high-intensity interval training, aerobic exercise, Pilates, and resistance training consistently outperformed exercise or supplementation alone in modulating antioxidant defenses, reducing systemic inflammation, and improving metabolic risk factors. Conclusions: The integration of exercise and nano-curcumin supplementation appears to confer superior benefits for women with lifestyle-related diseases compared with either approach alone. These findings highlight the potential of combining phytochemicals with lifestyle interventions to optimize women's health outcomes. However, most available evidence originates from small, short-term studies in single geographic regions. Large-scale, multicenter, randomized controlled trials with diverse populations are warranted to establish standardized protocols and optimal dosing strategies, and to assess long-term safety and efficacy.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    The acute effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on optimum power performance in healthy individuals

    Can, Ibrahim; Yerlikaya, Gokhan; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Subak, Guelhan Erdem; Bayrakdaroglu, Yesim; Uluç, Sinem; Nikolaidis, Pantelis T.

    Background: This study examines the acute effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) application on peak power (PP) and mean propulsive power (MPP) during a weighted squat jump (SJ(Loaded)). Methods: Fourteen male students (age: 23.71 +/- 2.30 years; height: 173.71 +/- 6.89 cm; weight: 69.59 +/- 9.08 kg; body mass index (BMI): 26.87 +/- 3.49) from the Faculty of Sport Sciences participated voluntarily. PP and MPP values were measured during the SJ(Loaded) movement, performed with an external load of 40% body weight, using a computer-integrated linear velocity transducer system (T-Force Dynamic Measurement System Ergotech Consulting SL, Murcia, Spain). NMES was bilaterally applied to the musculus hamstring and musculus quadriceps femoris for 20 minutes. The Shapiro-Wilk test, skewness and kurtosis values assessed data normality. Results: Differences between pre- and post-test PP and MPP power performances were analyzed using Paired Samples t-tests. Cohen's d (ES: effect size) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were also calculated to assess the pairwise comparisons' magnitude. According to the analysis results, statistically significant improvements were observed in both PP (t (13) = -2.612, p = 0.021, d: -0.69 (-1.27; -0.10, 95% CI)) and MPP (t (13) = -2.756, p = 0.016, d: -0.73 (-1.32; -0.13, 95% CI), moderate effect) values after the NMES application. Conclusions: NMES significantly enhances PP and MPP during loaded squat jumps, highlighting its potential as a supplementary training tool for improving explosive power. Future studies should explore its long-term effects across different sports and populations, such as female athletes or older adults, to optimize training protocols. Research on NMES intensities and frequencies may provide insights into optimal parameters for power development and neuromuscular adaptation.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Exploring the acute recovery effects of dry cupping therapy and electrical stimulation on anaerobic performance metrics in active individuals: A quasi-experimental crossover study

    Can, Ibrahim; Yerlikaya, Gokhan; Yalçin, Seda; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Kayhan, Recep Fatih; Uluç, Ender Ali; Stefanica, Valentina; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim

    Background:This quasi-experimental crossover study aimed to examine the acute effects of dry cupping therapy (DCT) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on fatigue and perceived exertion in anaerobic performance among physically active individuals.Methods:Twelve male participants (mean age: 24.1 +/- 2.37 years), all students from the Faculty of Sports Sciences, were recruited to participate voluntarily. Anaerobic performance parameters, including peak power, mean power (MP), and fatigue index (FI), were assessed using a Monark 839E cycling ergometer under 3 distinct conditions: NMES, DCT, and a control condition (no intervention), with each session separated by a 48-hour rest period. Perceived exertion was evaluated immediately following each test session using Borg's rate of perceived exertion (RPE) scale. Both NMES and DCT were administered bilaterally to the hamstring (m. hamstring) and quadriceps femoris (m. quadriceps femoris) muscles for 20 minutes before testing.Results:The results revealed no statistically significant differences in peak power and MP across the conditions. However, significant effects were identified for FI (F(2, 22) = 4.08, P = .031, eta p(2) = 0.27) and RPE (F(2, 22] = 8.88, P = .0015, eta p(2) = 0.45). Post hoc pairwise comparisons indicated that NMES significantly reduced FI compared to the control condition (P = .0311), with a small to medium effect size (Cohen's d = 0.44). In terms of RPE, DCT significantly lowered values compared to both the control (P = .0018) and NMES conditions (P = .0005), demonstrating medium (Cohen's d = 0.74) and small to medium (Cohen's d = 0.37) effect sizes, respectively.Conclusions:While NMES and DCT did not elicit acute improvements in peak or mean anaerobic power, both interventions effectively mitigated fatigue and reduced perceived exertion during maximal anaerobic exercise. These findings suggest that NMES and DCT may serve as valuable recovery modalities for mitigating fatigue in sports characterized by high anaerobic demands. Future research should investigate the chronic effects of these interventions and explore their utility among trained athletes to determine their broader applicability in enhancing athletic performance.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2024
    Isometric Shoulder and Hip Strength Impact on Throwing Velocity and Reactive Strength

    Kayhan, Recep Fatih; Terzi, Esranur; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Biyikli, Turker

    The aim of the study is to examine relationships between shoulder extension-flexion and internal-external rotation strength of professional male handball players with throwing velocity, and the hip extension-flexion strength with horizontal and vertical reactive strength index. Fifteen professional male handball players participating in 1 st League matches took part in the study. The results showed that isometric shoulder flexion and extension strength significantly predicted stable throwing velocity (r (2 )=between 0.27-0.73) and dynamic throwing velocity (r( 2) =between 0.30-0.62). In addition, isometric internal and external rotation strength significantly predicted stable throwing velocity (r (2) =between 0.32-0.54) and dynamic throwing velocity (r (2) =between 0.31-0.44). Moreover, isometric hip extension and flexion strength significantly predicted vertical reactive strength index (r( 2) =between 0.31-0.45) and horizontal reactive strength index (r (2) =between 0.26-0.42). In conclusion, it was observed that shoulder strength has an enhancing effect on handball players' throwing velocity, while hip strength is a determining factor for the reactive strength index. In this context, it is assumed that shoulder weakness during throwing will affect the accuracy and velocity of throwing by disrupting the angular momentum, while weakness in the hip during the jump phase of the throwing motion will negatively affect the explosive power by limiting stabilization during landing.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2024
    Effects of different rest intervals in high intensity interval training programs on VO2max, body composition, and isokinetic strength and power

    Kayhan, Recep Fatih; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Eken, Ozgur; Bayrakdaroglu, Yesim; Badicu, Georgian; Al-Mhanna, Sameer Badri; Enoiu, Razvan-Sandu; Ardigo, Luca Paolo

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of short and long rest running-based high-intensity training (HIIT) on body composition, isokinetic strength, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Nineteen physically active men were recruited to voluntarily participate in the study. The participants were grouped using the closed-envelope randomized method as HIIT with a short rest (HIITS, n = 9; age: 19.60 +/- 1.34 years) and HIIT with a long rest (HIITL, n = 10; age: 19.77 +/- 0.97). Pre and post the 8-week running-based HIIT program, body mass index and body fat % were measured and all subjects performed isokinetic strength tests to determine their hamstring (H)/quadriceps (Q) peak torque ratio and the peak power and peak work for their H and Q muscles. The participants also underwent a graded exercise test to determine their VO2max. Statistical analysis performed with One-Way Variance Analysis and Bonferroni correction post hoc tests. As a result of the study, there were no significant differences between the pre- and post-training isokinetic strength parameters for the H and Q of HIITL and HIITS at velocities of 60 and 240(degrees)s(-1). The VO2max did not change for HIITS training but the VO2max increased (p < 0.05) for HIITL training. In conclusion, that HIITL and HIITS programs for 8 weeks did not change the relative and absolute strength, force production and the VO2max, but the VO2max increased (p < 0.05) for HIITL training.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • Derleme MakaleAçık Erişim2024
    Meditative pathways to emotional intelligence in athletes: narrative review study

    Aouani, Hajer; Selmi, Walid; Hammami, Achraf; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Hammami, Raouf; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Bayrakdaroglu, Yesim; Uluç, Ender Ali; Raul-Ioan, Muntean; Uluç, Sinem

    Emotional intelligence, encompassing self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy and social skills, holds pivotal importance in the pursuit of excellence for athletes. Meditation, represented by various forms such as mindfulness, loving-kindness, visualization, breath control and relaxation exercises, offers athletes a structured pathway to deepen self-awareness, enhance emotional regulation and foster empathy. In conclusion, meditation emerges not merely as a relaxation technique but as a transformative journey that empowers athletes to master their emotions, excel in sports, and enhance their overall well-being. This narrative literature review highlights the profound impact of meditation on athletes' emotional intelligence, encouraging further exploration in this evolving intersection of sports and mindfulness. In the demanding world of sports, emotional intelligence (EI) is a critical factor for athletes' success, encompassing self-regulation, empathy, communication and composure under pressure. Meditation, a transformative tool for deepening self-awareness, emotional regulation and mental resilience, has emerged as a promising avenue for cultivating EI in athletes. This narrative review synthesizes existing research and personal narratives to explore the interplay between meditation and EI in the context of sports. Evidence suggests that meditation can enhance EI through mindfulness, loving-kindness and visualization practices, promoting focus, stress management and emotional resilience. Integration of meditation into athletic training regimens offers athletes a competitive edge, sharpening their mental acuity and fostering supportive team dynamics. While the transformative potential of meditation for EI is substantiated by research, limitations such as the predominance of qualitative studies and case reports warrant further empirical investigations. Overall, this narrative review highlights the promising relationship between meditation, EI, and athletic performance, paving the way for future research and practical applications of mindfulness practices in the sports world.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2024
    Pre-Exercise Caffeine and Sodium Bicarbonate: Their Effects on Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull Performance in a Crossover, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

    Kacoglu, Celil; Kirkaya, Izzet; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; de Assis, Gilmara Gomes; Almeida-Neto, Paulo; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Oliveira, Cesar Chaves; Özkan, Ali; Nikolaidis, Pantelis T.

    Caffeine and sodium bicarbonate are extensively researched ergogenic aids known for their potential to enhance exercise performance. The stimulant properties of caffeine on the central nervous system, coupled with the buffering capacity of sodium bicarbonate, have been associated with improved athletic performance. This has led to investigations of their combined effects on strength. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of isolated and combined caffeine and sodium bicarbonate consumption on strength using the isometric mid-thigh pull test (IMTP). Nineteen male college students (age 23.6 +/- 1.6 years) participated in this crossover, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. They were exposed to the following conditions: control (no supplement), placebo (20 g maltodextrin), caffeine (6 mg/kg), sodium bicarbonate (0.3 g/kg), and a combination of caffeine and sodium bicarbonate. Supplements and placebo were diluted in water and consumed 60 min prior to the IMTP tests. Two 5 s IMTP trials were performed at 40-60% and 60-80% of One Repetition of Maximum (1RM) with a 60 s rest between. Consumption of caffeine or Caf + NaHCO3 did not significantly change peak IMTP strength values at any intensity (p = 0.110). The peak IMTP values did not show significant differences between conditions or from control condition values (1091 +/- 100 N) to Caf (1224 +/- 92 N), NaHCO3 (1222 +/- 74 N), and Caf +/- NaHCO3 (1152 +/- 109 N). However, the test of the results of the ANOVA analysis of repeated measures of effect within the caffeine condition was significant for the increase in IMTP relative strength compared to control (p < 0.05). Thus, the IMTP force values increased significantly from control to Caf (p = 0.016) and from Pla to Caf (p = 0.008), but not for other comparisons (p > 0.05). In summary, caffeine supplementation alone, taken 60 min before exercise, positively affects submaximal strength performance. In contrast, sodium bicarbonate, whether taken alone or in combination with caffeine, does not enhance submaximal strength in the IMTP tests.