Ammonia inhalation for enhancing physical performance and exercise tolerance in physically active individuals and athletes: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v68.112376Keywords:
Ammonia inhalation, ammonium, performance, sport-specific skills, strengthAbstract
Introduction: Ammonia inhalation (AI) has gained popularity among differing athletic populations and physically active individuals. However, studies have investigated the effect of AI on various aspects of physical performance and exercise tolerance and reported contradictory findings.
Objective: Therefore, the aims of the study were to examine the effects of AI on physical performance and exercise tolerance in athletes from different competition levels and physically active individuals.
Methodology: PubMed, Mendeley and Cochrane Library databases were searched for original articles in English from inception to June 2024 according to PRISMA statement. In total 750 records were found, of which eight met the inclusion criteria.
Results: These studies included 120 men and 22 women. Among the analysed physical parameters, the most commonly employed were strength and cardiorespiratory measures, level of perceived exertion, neuromuscular output and sport-specific test performance.
Discussion: Four out of the eight studies reported positive effects of AI, while no statistically significant changes in these parameters were found in three studies.
Conclusions: However, in one study examining postural stability in golfers, the use of AI led to a decrease in performance component. Only one study investigated professional athletes.
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