Green Tea Extract and Ginger

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial is designed to evaluate the effects of green tea extract and ginger supplementation, both individually and in combination, on endurance performance, metabolic responses, thermal sensation, and muscle soreness in recreationally active men.

Sixteen healthy participants will complete eight experimental conditions: placebo, green tea extract (500 mg), ginger (1 g), and a combination of both, tested under normal (21-24°C) and cold (5-7°C) environments. Each condition will be separated by a washout period to avoid carryover effects.

Endurance capacity will be measured using a time-to-exhaustion cycling test at 70% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max). Metabolic responses will be assessed by gas analysis to determine respiratory exchange ratio (RER). Perceptual measures will include the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) and a thermal sensation scale, while muscle soreness will be evaluated 24 hours post-exercise using a visual analog scale (VAS).

The study aims to determine whether the combined intake of green tea and ginger provides synergistic benefits over individual supplementation, particularly in cold environments where thermoregulation and endurance capacity are challenged. Findings may contribute to practical nutritional strategies that enhance exercise performance, comfort, and recovery under environmental stress conditions.

Inclusion criteria

Male participants aged 18-35 years

Recreationally active (≥3 aerobic exercise sessions per week, ≥30 minutes per session, for at least 6 months)

VO₂max between 40-50 mL/kg/min (recreationally active fitness level)

Body mass index within the normal to slightly overweight range (approximately 18.5-27.5 kg/m²)

Willingness to comply with study requirements, including supplementation and exercise testing protocols

Provided written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

History of cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, or neurological disorders

Allergy or intolerance to green tea, ginger, or maltodextrin

Current use of ergogenic supplements, medications affecting metabolism, or stimulants (e.g., beta-blockers, caffeine pills)

Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption (>14 units per week)

Inconsistent exercise habits (<3 sessions/week in the past 6 months)

Participation in another clinical trial within the past 3 months