Protein supplementation on muscle recovery and soreness after intense badminton training sessions

Purpose. This study aimed to investigate the impact of protein supplementation on muscle recovery and delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in male badminton players following intense training sessions. Materials and Methods. Thirty-six male badminton players, aged 18 to 25, were randomly divided into three groups: a high-protein group (1.6 g/kg body weight), a moderate-protein group (0.8 g/kg body weight), and a placebo group. Participants consumed their respective supplements within 30 minutes after each training session over a six-week period. Muscle soreness was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 24, 48 and 72 hours post-exercise, and recovery was measured through the Perceived Recovery Status (PRS) scale. Statistical analyses, including two-way ANOVA, were performed to assess the effects of protein supplementation and the recovery time on muscle soreness and recovery. Results. The high-protein group showed significantly faster recovery and reduced muscle soreness than the moderate-protein and placebo groups (p < 0.001). Furthermore, regression analysis indicated a strong negative correlation between protein intake and muscle soreness, highlighting the benefit of higher protein levels in improving recovery. Conclusions. Protein supplementation, especially at a higher dose of 1.6 g/kg body weight, significantly aided in muscle recovery and reduced muscle soreness in male badminton players. This suggests that adequate protein intake is key to enhancing recovery and performance in sports that require quick bursts of intense activity.