Protein and endurance exercise

The maximal uptake and utilization of oxygen (VO2max) is fundamental to endurance exercise performance. The VO2max can be increased by long-term endurance exercise training. Recent research suggested that the impact of endurance exercise on VO2max can be augmented by the supplementation of protein during long-term endurance exercise training programs. The current study aims to assess the impact protein supplementation during long-term endurance exercise training on VO2max, endurance exercise performance, and muscle function in recreationally active young men. This is a double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled intervention trial. The study involves 12 weeks of endurance exercise training with pre- and post-measurements of exercise capacity and performance. During the 12-week exercise training programs, participants will be randomly assigned to a protein or placebo supplement group.

Daily protein supplementation during long-term endurance exercise training augments the physiological adaptations to endurance exercise training.

Baseline and following 12 weeks of exercise training.

Exercise training: During the 12-week exercise training program participants will complete three exercise sessions weekly. In the training programs continuous endurance exercise sessions will be alternated with interval exercise sessions.

Protein supplementation: All participants will be randomly assigned to the protein or placebo (isocaloric carbohydrate) group. The protein or placebo supplements will be ingested after each training session and each day before sleep.