One hour cycling performance is not affected by ingested fluid volume

Abstract

This study, supported by SmithKline & Beecham, was designed to clarify the benefits of consuming different volumes of fluids, with identical carbohydrate content, during a one hour cycling time trial conducted under thermoneutral conditions. Findings showed that the ACSM guidelines do not apply under these conditions in which there is no performance benefit to drinking more than a pre-ride carbohydrate bolus and an ad libitum carbohydrate solution. The results have implications for the sports scientist and the athlete in determining the optimal fluid replacement strategy. Backx designed the study, collected and analysed the data, and wrote the manuscript.