The effects of pre-exercise co-ingestion of caffeinated gum and carbohydrate gel on functional threshold power and physiological-perceptual responses in youth road cyclists

Abstract

Aim. Caffeine is frequently used in many team or individual sports worldwide, either before or during exercise. However, despite being a widely researched ergogenic aid, its interaction with Functional Threshold Power (FTP) remains unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the acute effects of caffeinated chewing gum and carbohydrate gel supplementation on FTP and physiological-perceptual responses. Methods. Thirteen highly trained male youth cyclists participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, counterbalanced crossover trial. Participants consumed four supplements—placebo (PLA), caffeine (CAF), carbohydrate gel (CHO), and CAF+CHO—at 48-hour intervals. Supplements were ingested 5 minutes prior to the protocol consisting of a 15minute warm-up, a 20-minute FTP test, and a cool-down. Post-exercise assessments included rating of perceived exertion (RPE), visual analog scale (VAS), gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS), and balance, whereas hydration was determined via pre- and post-test saliva analysis. Results. A significant difference was observed for average power output (p<0.007), with post hoc analyses indicating significant differences between PLA and CAF+CHO (p<0.008) and between CHO and CAF+CHO (p<0.006). Similarly, significant differences were found for FTP (W) (p<0.007) and FTP (W/kg) (p<0.007), with both measures showing significant pairwise differences between PLA and CAF+CHO, and CHO and CAF+CHO (p<0.01). No statistically significant differences were detected for speed (p<0.123), heart rate (HR) (p<0.638), cadence (p<0.550), or distance (p<0.100). Hydration status and gastrointestinal symptoms varied between groups. Conclusions. CAF and CAF+CHO appear effective for performance enhancement, though individual tolerance must be considered. The use of CAF and CAF+CHO supplementation may be recommended to improve performance in youth cyclists, provided individual tolerance is considered.