The Influence of Chlorella Supplementation on Running Performance

Overview

Algae, such as chlorella, are gaining popularity as a nutritious additive to whole food or as a supplement. They contain a variety of beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and amino acids, which can have positive effects on our health and possibly athletic performance. Chlorella, specifically, is a type of single-celled green algae that you can easily find in health stores worldwide. While there's some evidence suggesting that chlorella supplementation might improve submaximal and maximal performance for cyclists, it's unclear if it has the same impact on runners. To investigate this, the investigators aim to conduct a double-blind randomised placebo controlled study to see if taking chlorella daily for 3-weeks can enhance different aspects of running performance, both during low/moderate and intense exercise, among individuals who regularly engage in running.

After signing the consent form, we will invite you to come to the ISEH laboratory on Tottenham Court Road so we can take some basic baseline readings. This should last up to 60 minutes and will also include a V̇o2max Test (visit 1). After this, you will be randomly allocated either start on chlorella or placebo first. After supplementation (for visit 2 and 3) you will be required to perform a submaximal running test which will entail running at 60% GET (gas exchange threshold), 80% GET, and 75% of the change from peak. This will then be shortly followed by an incremental test to fatigue. You will then be required to undergo the exact same supplementation period on the alternative supplement with the same exercise test performed. You will be required to come into the laboratory a total of 3 times. Each visit should take roughly 1 - 1.5 hours.