Effects of sodium bicarbonate on aerobic endurance: An acute intervention study in boxers

This study investigated the effects of acute NaHCO₃ ingestion on aerobic endurance and anaerobic power performance in elite boxers. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover experimental design was employed, and 25 male boxers completed both the NaHCO₃ (0.3 g/kg) and placebo conditions. Ninety minutes after ingestion, participants performed the countermovement jump (CMJ) test, followed by the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1). Upon completion of the Yo-Yo IR1 test, participants’ perceived exertion levels were assessed using the Borg Category-Ratio 10 Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. The results demonstrated that CMJ performance was significantly higher in the NaHCO₃ condition compared with placebo (p < 0.05; d = 0.50). Similarly, the distance covered during the Yo-Yo IR1 test increased significantly following NaHCO₃ ingestion (p < 0.05; d = 0.67), indicating an improvement in high-intensity intermittent exercise capacity. No significant differences in RPE values were observed between conditions. In conclusion, acute NaHCO₃ ingestion effectively enhances both anaerobic jump performance and intermittent aerobic endurance in boxers. These findings suggest that NaHCO₃ may serve as a beneficial nutritional ergogenic strategy when administered prior to competition or high-intensity training sessions.