The effects of sodium bicarbonate and pyridoxine‐alpha‐ketoglutarate on short‐term maximal exercise capacity

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the simultaneous use of pyridoxine‐alpha‐ketoglutarate (PAK) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) on short‐term maximal exercise capacity in eight well‐trained male cyclists. The study consisted of the determination of maximal power output and the administration of various combinations of placebos, PAK and NaHCO3, followed by a short‐term maximal exercise test. To determine maximal power output (powermax), the subjects performed a continuous, incremental test on a Monark bicycle ergometer to symptom limited maximum (test 1). To determine the effects of NaHCO3 and PAK on short‐term maximal exercise performance, the subjects were administered either placebo (PLA), PAK and sodium bicarbonate (P/B), PAK and placebo (PAK), or sodium bicarbonate and placebo (BIC) prior to performing short‐term maximal exercise (test 2). Oral tablets of NaHCO3 and PAK were given in doses of 260 mg kg‐1 and 50 mg kg‐1 respectively. The subjects pedalled at the power ou...