Caffeine lowers perceptual response and increases power output during high-intensity cycling

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of caffeine ingestion on a ‘preloaded’ protocol that involved cycling for 2 min at a constant rate of 100% maximal power output immediately followed by a 1-min ‘all-out’ effort. Eleven male cyclists completed a ramp test to measure maximal power output. On two other occasions, the participants ingested caffeine (5 mg · kg⁻¹) or placebo in a randomized, double-blind procedure. All tests were conducted on the participants' own bicycles using a Kingcycle™ test rig. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE; 6–20 Borg scale) were lower in the caffeine trial by approximately 1 RPE point at 30, 60 and 120 s during the constant rate phase of the preloaded test (P vs 750±163 W; P = 0.05). Blood lactate concentration 4, 5 and 6 min after exercise was also significantly higher by approximately 1 mmol · l⁻¹ in the caffeine trial (P <0.05). These results suggest that high-intensity cycling performance can be increased following moderate caffeine ingestion and that this improvement may be related to a reduction in RPE and an elevation in blood lactate concentration.