Effects of acute and 14-day coenzyme Q10 supplementation on exercise performance in both trained and untrained individuals
Cooke M, Iosia M, Buford T, Shelmadine B, Hudson G, Kerksick C, Rasmussen C, Greenwood M, Leutholtz B, Willoughby D, Kreider R
Published in Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
Abstract
Study examining CoQ10's effects on exercise performance and recovery, demonstrating antioxidant and performance-enhancing properties.
Methodology
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with acute and 14-day supplementation arms and exercise performance testing.
Key Findings
In 22 trained and untrained participants, CoQ10 200 mg/day raised plasma and muscle CoQ10 and produced a small increase in time to exhaustion after 14 days, but there was no significant effect on maximal anaerobic or aerobic power, and subjective fatigue measures were largely unchanged. Acute single-dose supplementation showed no performance benefit.
Conclusions
CoQ10 reliably raises tissue CoQ10 levels but delivers little to no meaningful exercise performance benefit over two weeks.
Limitations
Very small sample, short 14-day supplementation period, mixed trained/untrained groups reducing statistical power, and manufacturer-supplied product.
Supplements Studied
Coenzyme Q10 supplementation and exercise performance.
Outcomes Measured
Coenzyme Q10 supplementation and exercise performance.
In 22 trained and untrained participants, CoQ10 200 mg/day raised plasma and muscle CoQ10 and produced a small increase in time to exhaustion after 14 days, but there was no significant effect on maximal anaerobic or aerobic power, and subjective fatigue measures were largely unchanged. Acute single-dose supplementation showed no performance benefit.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Supported by an industry supplement supplier via the Baylor University exercise laboratory.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.