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Does Sodium Bicarbonate improve your erg score? Brunel University sports science student Chris Bethel is studying the effect of sodium bicarbonate (bicarb of soda) as a blood buffering agent to help sporting performance. Past studies have seen good effects (it mops up lactic acid, and is an entirely legal supplement), but only one has been done in rowing. This found a drop of up to 5 seconds in 2km erg times by taking it 1.5 hours before exercise. His study hopes to confirm these findings and increase awareness. He's after high level rowers who would be happy to attend two testing sessions at Brunel University (London), where they'd have to do one 2,000m time-trial per visit. VO2max testing and other general performance help can be offered to those taking part in the study, as a bonus. Testing days are 4th and 18th March ideally, but alternatives could be arranged if necessary. Will anyone interested in taking part please contact Chris by email or on 07843080663. Please be warned that one study of sodium bicarbonate use at Iowa State University reported stomach upsets and diarrhoea, as well as minimal useful effects, so don't try this without medical supervision.
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