The Effect of Short-Term Rhodiola rosea Supplementation on Simulated Game Time, Perceived Fatigue, and Performance in Basketball Players

<b>Objectives</b>: This study aims to evaluate the effects of short-term <i>Rhodiola rosea</i> supplementation on simulated game performance, perceived fatigue, and aerobic capacity in basketball players. <b>Methods</b>: A total of 48 professional male basketball players participated in this study. The participants were randomly divided into a <i>Rhodiola rosea</i> group (RHO group, <i>n</i> = 24) and a Control group (CTR group, <i>n</i> = 24). During the experiment, the RHO group received continuous 28-day <i>Rhodiola rosea</i> supplementation, while the CTR group received empty capsules without being informed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 software. A two-way mixed ANOVA (2 × 2) group (CTR/RHO) × time (Pre-test/Post-test) was conducted to compare differences. <b>Results</b>: In comparison to the CTR group, the RHO group showed significant differences in total completion time in the simulated game (<i>p</i> = 0.046), heart rate 60 s after the simulated game (<i>p</i> = 0.026), 5 km run (<i>p</i> = 0.027), YO-YO test (<i>p</i> = 0.036), VO₂max (<i>p</i> = 0.034) and total antioxidant capacity (<i>p</i> = 0.044) compared to the CTR group. Within the RHO group, pre- and post-test comparisons revealed significant improvements in total completion time (<i>p</i> = 0.000), heart rate 30 s (<i>p</i> = 0.021) and 60 s (<i>p</i> = 0.016) after the simulated game, RPE score (<i>p</i> = 0.030), Countermovement jump test (<i>p</i> = 0.036), 5 km run (<i>p</i> = 0.000), YO-YO test (<i>p</i> = 0.000), VO₂max (<i>p</i> = 0.000) and Superoxide Dismutase (<i>p</i> = 0.011). <b>Conclusions</b>: Short-term <i>Rhodiola rosea</i> supplementation can improve sprint performance and reduce perceived fatigue in basketball players during simulated games, enhance aerobic work capacity, and delay fatigue.