The effect of creatine loading on the performance of sedentary and recreationally
active individuals has been well documented, but research on well trained individuals
is still lacking. In this double-blind study the effect of creatine monohydrate loading
(9g/day) on maximal intermittent isokinetic exercise and sport-specific strength in
13 well trained power-lifters was ascertained. Both before and after supplementation
the creatine (n=8) and placebo (n=S) groups performed three sets of maximal
unilateral knee extensions on an isokinetic dynamometer interspaced with 60s rest
periods. This was followed up the next day by a maximal deadlift strength feat
performed in a gymnasium. Values for peak torque, average power, total work and
work output during the first five sample repetitions in the creatine group increased
significantly and in a relatively constant fashion in all subjects (correlation
coefficients ranged between 0.84 and 0.92) after five supplementation days. There
was also a significant (p = 0.010) increase in the deadlift lifting volume after six days
of creatine supplementation. Findings from this study suggest that nine grams of
creatine monohydrate per day for five and six days respectively, improves maximal
intermittent isokinetic power output and sport-specific strength in well trained
power-lifters.