Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of low blood alcohol levels (BAL) on the 5-mile treadmill run times of 18 well-trained male runners. V02max tests were performed one wk before and after the experimental trials. The three experimental time trials involved ingestion of one of the three alcohol drinks (0.0, 0.22, and 0.44 ml alcohol per kg body weight). A one wk interval separated each of these sessions. Procedures insured that the subjects could neither smell, taste, nor see the placebo or ethanol-grape drink mixture. Following ingestion of the drink the subjects were allowed a 30 min absporption period after which a blood sample was drawn via a finger prick. Subjects then warmed-up for five-min on the treadmill, started the time trial, and judged their pace by time splits given at 0.25 mile, 0.5 mile, and every halfmile thereafter. Subjects could alter their speed at any time. Heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion were taken at every mile. Despite an apparent trend towards a deterioration in performance with increased alcohol intake, analysis of variance indicated no significant difference for any of the parameters measured. These data indicate that the performance of endurance exercise is not enhanced at these very low blood alcohol levels. Verf.-Referat