Effects of creatine supplementation on the onset of neuromuscular fatigue thresh

November 7, 2007

J Nutr Health Aging. 2007 Nov-Dec;11(6):459-64.

Effects of creatine supplementation on the onset of neuromuscular

fatigue threshold and muscle strength in elderly men and women (64 -

86 years)

Stout JR, Sue Graves B, Cramer JT, Goldstein ER, Costa PB, AE,

Walter AA.

J.R. Stout, Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of

Oklahoma, 115 Huston Huffman Center, 1401 Asp Ave., Norman, OK

Objectives: This study examined the effects of 14 days of creatine

supplementation on the physical working capacity at fatigue

threshold (PWCFT), maximal isometric grip strength (GRIP), sit-to-

stand (STS), and body weight (BW) in elderly men and women.

Design: Using a double blind cross-over design, fifteen men (n = 7)

and women (n = 8) (age +/- SD = 74.5 +/- 6.4 yrs) were randomly

assigned to either the creatine (CR) (20g.d-1 during week 1

decreasing to 10g.d-1 at week 2) or Placebo (PL) group. After a 4 to

6 week washout period, the subjects were assigned the other

treatment. Before (pre) and after (post) the supplementation period,

participants performed a discontinuous, cycle ergometry test to

determine the PWCFT. In addition, subjects performed STS, GRIP, BW

test prior to and post treatment.

Setting: Southeastern part of the United States.

Results: Significant increases in GRIP (6.7%) and PWCFT (15.6%) from

pre- to post-supplementation were found for the CR (p < 0.05)

treatment, but no change for the PL treatment was observed. However,

no significant change (p superior 0.05) was noted for STS or BW for

either treatment.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that 14 days of CR

supplementation may increase upper body grip strength and increase

physical working capacity by delaying neuromuscular fatigue in the

elderly men and women in this study. While more research is needed,

CR supplementation may improve upper body grip strength and lower

body muscle endurance which may be important for maintaining health

and independent living in elderly men and women.

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