Definition: "An ergogenic aid is any substance or phenomenon that enhances performance "
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10.09.2015 |
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Belief factor crucial for effect of supplements
Sports supplements work better if you believe in them. Only when the power of the mind - or the placebo effect if you prefer - is combined with the physiological effects of a supplement do athletes actually achieve better results. Scottish sports scientists Mary McClung and Dave Collins discovered this in an unusual study, which they published in 2007 in the Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology.
Study
Another time the subjects were given a placebo, but were told by the researchers that they were getting an effective performance enhancer. [Told Drug/ Given No Drug]
A third time the subjects were given a proven effective supplement, but were told by the researchers that they were getting a placebo. [Told No Drug/ Given Drug]
A fourth time the subjects were given a proven effective supplement and the researchers told them this too. [Told Drug/Given Drug]
The supplement used was sodium bicarbonate. The runners were given 0.3 g sodium bicarbonate [structural formula shown above] per kg bodyweight dissolved in 750 ml water about two hours before they had to run the 1000 metres. The placebos were bottles containing 750 ml water.
Results
Conclusion
"Could this be a learning point for coaches, psychologists, and other support staff regarding their relationships with athletes? The role that a coach may play in enhancing self-confidence in his or her athlete has been acknowledged in the literature, but mostly in relation to goal setting."
"Based on these results, we would highlight the need for coaches and support staff to complete a 'hard sell' of their training methods to their athletes, and to check frequently that the performers are completely confident in what they are being asked to do. In short, procedures will enjoy a valuable bonus if the consumers are initially convinced, and remain confident, of their efficacy."
Mistaken conclusion
Source: More:
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