THE EFFECTS OF A CARBOHYDRATE AND SODIUM SUPPLEMENT ON BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU PERFORMANCE

Connor R. McKay, Zachary L. Durden, Danielle E. Bull, Ava Clavijo, Ashley M. Bruce, Stephen B. Podsen, Sabrina R. Fordham, Elizabeth M. Harrison, Andrew J. Jakiel, Parker N. Hyde.

University of North Georgia

BACKGROUND: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based combat sport, where the objective is to submit your opponent. Current research shows that the sport's short duration, high intensity bouts, lead to a high glycolytic and perspiration rate. The literature body lacks nutrition research and needs to elucidate guidance for BJJ players. Current sports performance literature shows a consensus of the ergogenic effects of carbohydrate (CHO) and sodium (Na) supplementation. This study aims to explore the potential ergogenic effects of a CHO+Na supplement in BJJ players.

METHODS: We aim to recruit male participants (n=20) who are active BJJ players. An a-priori power analysis was completed using G*Power to determine minimum sample size required. Results indicated the aforementioned sample size to achieve 80% power to detect a medium effect at a significance level of α=0.05. We will use a randomized placebo-controlled repeated measures design, block randomizing participants into three conditions (Low Dose CHO+Na, High Dose CHO+Na, Placebo). Participants will engage in simulated competition training rounds designed to increase intensity similar to competition. During the testing periods participants will be outfitted with a heart rate monitor (Polar H10; Polar Electro, Kempele, Finland). Participants will be asked to complete a series of inventories relating to RPE, thirst, and fatigue at multiple timepoints during the testing day (pre-, during, immediately post). Participants will weigh in pre- and post-training to monitor sweat loss. Sweat sodium concentration (SSC) will be collected and analyzed via sweat collection patches (Nix Hydration Biosensor) and all fluid consumed will be controlled. Participants will have blood glucose and lactate concentrations measured pre- and post-testing via capillary blood test. Data will be analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine significant differences, if any.

ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We hypothesize that the consumption of a CHO+Na supplement will increase blood glucose, lactate, HR, SSC, and sweat loss, with a decrease in RPE, fatigue, and thirst ratings.