Branched-chain amino acids do not improve muscle recovery from resistance exercise in untrained young adults
Estoche JM, et al
Published in Amino Acids
Methodology
Randomised placebo-controlled parallel trial; 5 days of branched-chain amino acid or placebo supplementation with resistance exercise sessions (hack squat and leg press) on days 1 and 3; recovery assessed at 30 minutes, 24 hours and 48 hours using repetitions, rating of perceived exertion, muscle soreness and countermovement jump.
Key Findings
24 untrained young adults (mean age 24) were assigned to branched-chain amino acids or placebo (12 per group) for 5 days, performing two lower-body resistance sessions and being assessed 30 minutes, 24 hours and 48 hours afterwards. Muscle soreness rose and countermovement jump performance fell at 30 minutes and returned to baseline by 24 to 48 hours, with no difference between the supplement and placebo groups (group x time p > 0.05). Repetitions performed and rating of perceived exertion also showed no group difference. The authors conclude branched-chain amino acids do not improve recovery from resistance exercise in untrained young adults.
Conclusions
BCAA supplementation does not improve muscle recovery from resistance exercise in untrained young adults.
Limitations
Only 12 people per group over 5 days, too few to detect small effects; participants were untrained young adults, so results may not apply to trained athletes or longer supplementation periods.
Supplements Studied
The results indicate that BCAA supplementation does not improve muscle recovery from RE in untrained young adults.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.