My Background in Academic Research.
As part of my Master’s Degree in Health, Sport and Human Performance Science, I had the opportunity to work alongside the All Blacks Sevens Rugby Team while I conducted my academic research. My research was subsequently published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. This experience allowed me to apply advanced sports science principles within a high-performance environment while developing my expertise in performance analysis, data interpretation, and academic research.
Research Abstract
Background
Previous research has suggested that the topical application of a carnosine gel may increase intramuscular carnosine concentrations and thereby improve high-intensity exercise performance. This study aimed to investigate the application of a topical carnosine gel and its effects on intermittent high-intensity exercise performance in rugby sevens players.
Methods
Eight Olympic-level rugby sevens players completed two performance tests in which they received both treatments, 10 mL of a topical carnosine gel (CAR) or an ultrasound placebo gel (PLA). The performance test was completed on a cycle ergometer and consisted of a warm-up, 12 intermittent sprints and a 2-min half-time break. Each sprint effort consisted of 24 s cycling at 3 W/kg, 6 s at maximal intensity, and 30 s rest. Rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded at the end of Sprint 6 and Sprint 12. Average and peak power were recorded for every 6 s sprint.
Results
For peak power output, a two-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant time effect and condition effect. The CAR condition experienced an increase in peak power output for Sprint 2 (+101.3), Sprint 4 (+102.6) and Sprint 7 (+156.0) compared to the PLA condition. Although non-significant, there was still a substantial increase in mean power for the CAR condition in Sprints 10 (+51.3) and 11 (+44.7) compared to the PLA condition.
Conclusion
Overall, the application of a topical carnosine gel can significantly improve power production in Olympic-level rugby sevens players. The topical application of a carnosine gel may increase intramuscular carnosine concentrations and, as a result, improve anaerobic alactic performance in Olympic-level athletes.