The effects of Jilin sika Deer's (Cervus dybowski) tendon liquid supplementation on endurance drop jumps performance, biochemistry profile of free boxing players

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Risk of anterior cruciate ligament is a persistent and severe problem in athletes owing to strenuous exercise-induced lower-body injury. Tendon of deer liquid (TD) a familiar traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for strengthening the bones and muscles. Aim of the study In this study, we seek to demonstrate the application of TD in improving endurance exercise performance and reducing the risk of endurance training injury for free boxing players. Materials and methods Sixteen male free boxing players were randomly assigned to the TD and placebo groups. Body composition, clinical biochemistry profiles, kinematic and physiology exercise tests were evaluated at 2 time points – pre-supplementation (pre-) and after 6 weeks post-supplementation (post-). Results TD group exhibited significant increase in levels of serum total protein (TP) compared to the placebo group after a 6-week supplementation. Following the treadmill test, serum glucose and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) levels were increased in the TD group. In the endurance test consisting of 200 counts of drop vertical jumps (DVJs), subjects in the TD group also showed an increase in vertical jump height and reduced risk of musculoskeletal system injuries. Conclusions TD supplementation leads to better physiological adaptation in free boxing players and has the potential for use as a nutrient supplement toward a variety of benefits for endurance athletes.