CAFFEINE has many purported performance-enhancing effects and the latest trial, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, suggests it could provide a small benefit for muscle strength.
Fifteen participants each performed three trials after consuming either a caffeinated energy drink, an uncaffeinated energy drink or a placebo. Researchers then took various measures as the athletes performed strength exercises, assessing the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of their muscles and the percentage of muscle activation for a series of weight lifting moves.
Results showed that only MVIC increased after the caffeinated drink was consumed, but that the effect was modest. “Whether the efficacy of energy drinks can be attributed solely to caffeine remains unclear,” the researchers concluded.