Beta-Alanine Does Not Enhance the Effects of Resistance Training in Older Adults

ABSTRACT

To investigate the potential of beta-alanine to increase muscular endurance of elder individuals in specific resistance-training protocols, we randomly assigned 27 participants (60–82 years of age) to a 12-week double-blind intervention using 3.2 g/day beta-alanine or placebo with or without resistance training to determine the effects on anthropometrics, muscular performance, and activities of daily living (ADL). The endurance-based resistance-training program (ERT) was given three times per week and included two sets of 15–25 repetitions on 11 computerized pneumatic machines (alternating upper and lower body) at an intensity of 50% of maximum lifting weight (1RM). Mixed design analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed no significant group × time interactions (p > .05) for any anthropometric or strength measures except 1RM leg press (p = .010). A post hoc analysis revealed significant improvements in 1RM leg press for both the resistance-training groups (p < .001) but no significant between-group difference attributable to beta-alanine. For the 20-repetition chest and leg press tests, no main effects of beta-alanine or group × time interactions for the exercise versus control groups were observed. Pairwise comparisons, however, did reveal significant improvements in peak and average power for both tests and fatigue index for the chest press in resistance-training groups. Although beta-alanine had no effect on any measures, the ERT program did positively affect three performance variables: 1RM, mechanical power, and fatigue patterns during muscular endurance testing. Future research should examine beta-alanine with different dosages and training programs to expand upon our findings using endurance-based resistance training.

KEYWORDS:

• amino acid supplementation
• elderly
• muscular endurance
• neuromuscular fatigue

Acknowledgments

The authors thank Natural Alternatives International (NAI) for their contribution of sustained-release beta-alanine tablets and the matching placebo. The authors also thank student research assistants Amanda Luiso and Caitlin Lowe for their assistance with the study.

Declaration of interest

Natural Alternatives International (NAI) provided the coded placebo and beta-alanine tablets at no cost but was not involved in the study design, data collection, statistical analysis or preparation of this manuscript.

About the authors

Christopher H. Bailey, PhD, is interested in Research of dietary supplements. Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.

Joseph F. Signorile, PhD, is interested in Research of kinesiology. Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA and Center on Aging, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.

Arlette C. Perry, PhD, is interested in Research of kinesiology. Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.

Kevin A. Jacobs, PhD, is interested in Research of kinesiology. Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.

Nicholas D. Myers, PhD, is interested Research of statistics. Education and Psychological Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.