Caffeine, Carb Combo Boosts Sports Performance

SHEFFIELD, United KingdomAthletes who consume a sports drink containing caffeine and carbohydrates may significantly enhance their endurance and performance, according to new research conducted at Sheffield Hallam University.

The researchers conducted three different soccer-specific match simulations of 90 minutes eachtwo 45 minute sessionsthat tested agility, dribbling, heading and kicking accuracy. The test was designed to mimic a football game where the participants had to carry out multiple repeated sprints, dribble the ball around cones and shoot accurately. They found the combination of carbohydrate and caffeine allowed players to sustain higher work intensity for the sprints, as well as improving shooting accuracy and dribbling during simulated soccer activity.

These findings suggest that, for athletes competing in team sports where endurance and skill are important factors, ingesting a carbohydrate and caffeine drink, as opposed to just a carbohydrate drink, may significantly enhance performance. Our findings suggest that soccer players should choose a carbohydrate caffeine drink over a carbohydrate drink to consume before kick off and at half-time," the researchers said.