Self-control exertion and caffeine mouth rinsing: Effects on cycling time-trial performance

Abstract Objectives The exertion of self-control has been associated with impaired performance on subsequent physical tasks also requiring self-control. However, the effect in well-trained individuals, and nutritional intervention strategies to reduce impact are unknown. This study, therefore, explored endurance performance, pacing strategies, individuals. A further aim was examine potential for a caffeine mouth rinse attenuate any decrements due exertion. Method Following familiarization, fifteen trained male cyclists completed four simulated 10 km cycling time-trials cycle ergometer. Prior each time-trial, participants congruent Stroop task, or an incongruent manipulate They received either (containing 40 mg dissolved caffeine) placebo mouth-rinse prior to, every 2 km during, time-trial. participants' time, subjective measures (perceived pain, motivation, task importance, RPE), heart rate, blood lactate concentration were recorded throughout time-trials. Data analysed using three-way (self-control*caffeine*split time) repeated ANOVA. Results There no overall time (all p > 0.05). following exertion, split significantly slower at 3 km (p = 0.031) 5 km (p = 0.034), tended be 1 km (p = 0.088) 7 km (p = 0.078). rinse, nor did this interact self-control, affect times not influence perceptions importance individuals Conclusions Findings suggest that affects self-regulatory during first rinsing does effects performance.