New research has highlighted the potential of β-alanine—a naturally occurring amino acid linked to muscle endurance—to enhance athletic performance. Known for its role in forming carnosine, a compound that buffers acid in muscles, β-alanine may offer athletes an edge during intense training.
In a short-term trial involving individuals engaged in High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT), participants were given either β-alanine or a placebo while maintaining identical workout routines. After several weeks, the β-alanine group displayed noticeable improvements in explosive power, particularly in vertical jump height and jumping strength, compared to those on the placebo.
Interestingly, while gains were observed in specific performance measures, the supplementation did not appear to affect fatigue levels or perceived exercise intensity. These findings suggest that β-alanine can sharpen performance in high-intensity settings by boosting muscle power output—even if athletes don’t necessarily feel less fatigued.
