In a study done last year, researchers gave cyclists an energy bar with or without caffeine (equal to one cup of coffee) before and during a long, hard ride. They found that cyclists who have caffeine ride farther and think faster on cognitive tests than the no-caffeine group — useful news to runners in endurance events and adventure races, where quick decision-making is key.
Increase Sprint Speed
Consider drinking a cup of coffee before your next speed workout: Australian scientists gave fit athletes a 300-milligram dose of caffeine one hour before running five sets of 6 x 20-meter sprints. They found that runners who have caffeine sprint faster than those who don't have caffeine. Researchers think the stimulant enhances reaction time and running speed.
Recover More Quickly
Runners know they need carbs postrun to rebuild their glycogen stores, but a recent study suggests caffeine may also enhance recovery. Cyclists rode hard for two consecutive days to drain their glycogen stores. They then drank a carb beverage with or without caffeine. Researchers found that having a drink with caffeine rebuilds glycogen stores 66 percent more than a carb-only drink.
Hydrate Smart
Many people have heard caffeine causes dehydration. Most studies, though, show you can have up to 550 milligrams of caffeine (or about five cups of coffee) without affecting hydration levels. That means you can have quite a few caff einated sports drinks and gels while running without risking dehydration; more than 550 milligrams will have a diuretic effect.
Keep Bones Healthy
A few studies have shown a link between bone-mineral loss and caffeine — but a close look at the data reveals that caffeine itself doesn't cause the mineral loss. Many coffee lovers may drink it in place of beverages rich in calcium (such as milk), and as a result, decrease their intake of this bone-strengthening mineral.
Mocha-Madness Recovery Shake
The combination of carbs, protein, and caffeine (about 100 milligrams) in this shake will help boost muscle recovery after a hard run.
2 ounces espresso (or very strong coffee)
8 ounces low-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons sweetened ground chocolate
1 banana
5 ice cubes
Place all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth and frothy.
CALORIES: 380
CARBS: 71 G
PROTEIN: 19 G
FAT: 6.5 G
CALCIUM: 30% DV
Measuring Up
Just how much jolt is in that gel, soda or latte?
CHOCOLATE MILK (8 ounces) - 5 MG
GU ROCTANE ENERGY GEL (1 pack) - 35 MG
BOTTLED ICED TEA (16-ounce bottle) - 40 MG
DIET COKE (12-ounce can) - 45 MG
CLIF SHOT BLOKS (3 bloks) - 50 MG
COFFEE ICE CREAM (1 cup) - 58 MG
RED BULL (1 can) - 80 MG
ESPRESSO (2 ounces) - 100 MG
COFFEE, DRIP (8 ounces) - 130 MG
STARBUCKS CAFE LATTE (16 ounces) - 150 MG
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