The effect of caffeine supplementation on the performance in combat athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim: of the study was to conduct a systematic search and generalize the results of randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of caffeine on the performance of combat athletes.

Materials and methods: the study was conducted according to PRISMA, and PRISMA-P. Literature searches without date and language restrictions were performed in the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Epistemonikos, and eLIBRARY.RU. Meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis were used as statistical methods.

Results: we identified 218 studies from the search, of which 24 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. A total of 16 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed no effect of caffeine on the results of the special judo test, rate of perceived exertion, speed-strength indicators (Wingate anaerobic test), jump power and height, strength endurance in the special judo test, special judo test index, as well as the total number of throws and throws in the second attempt. The meta-analysis demonstrated a positive effect of caffeine on the results of various taekwondo specific tests and on the number of throws in the first and third attempts of the special judo test. When assessing physiological responses, no differences in peak heart rate were observed. A statistically significant increase in peak blood lactate values was demonstrated after simulated fights.

Conclusion: caffeine consumption does not have a significant effect on improving overall physical performance, as well as on performance-related indicators and cardiac activity in combat athletes. However, it is possible that caffeine may have a positive effect on some specific indicators in this group of athletes.

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