The risk of an inadvertent positive doping test is a very real problem facing athletes who compete in events governed by anti-doping rules. Several studies have found banned stimulants and anabolic agents detected in dietary supplements bought over the counter. Are you leaving yourself open to this? Dietary supplements can broadly be categorised into ‘sports-foods’ … Read more
Caffeine is the most commonly used “drug” by our entire population but its use in sport as an ergogenic aid is also high. A recent study looked into the presence of caffeine in post-competition urine samples taken for drug testing (Coso JD et al, 2011). The results revealed 3 out of 4 elite athletes use … Read more
These are a great pancake recipe, light and fluffy due to the egg whites and very easy to make. They make an ideal breakfast or meal after a tough training session. 3 whole eggs 120g fine oat flour 1 heaped teaspoon baking powder 140ml milk Pinch of salt Separate the eggs, whites in one bowl and the … Read more
Tart cherry juice has been shown to aid recovery from strenuous exercise by increasing total antioxidative capacity and reducing inflammation. Importantly, these results have translated into a recovery of muscle function. Now in a recent study the juice has been put to another good use… A good nights sleep is a vital part of any … Read more
More fears over the contamination of meat products with banned substances appeared in the news this week. The use of clenbuterol in livestock farming in China has caused their General Administration of Sport to issue strict guidelines to athletes. The recent case of Alberto Contador highlighted this potential danger. Now Chinese athletes who are aiming to … Read more
Increasing the amount of nitrate in the diet has shown promising results for exercise performance over the last few years. The use of beetroot juice to increase nitrate intake has been used successfully and although the mechanisms still need clarifying, the results are positive. Nearly all studies thus far have focused upon endurance-based exercise much of which has been performed at … Read more