Impact of Powdered Tart Cherries on Recovery From Repeated Sprints

The purpose of this study is to evaluate changes in force and power production, soreness, inflammation, and oxidative stress after repeated sprinting activity and powdered tart cherry ingestion in trained males and females. This study will utilize a randomized, double-blind, placebo group study design. Prior to any data collection, potential participants will be explained the protocol and then review and sign an IRB-approved consent form. Healthy male and female (n=40) participants who report regularly practicing or competing in high-intensity multi-modal resistance based exercise will complete the study protocol.

Inclusion criteria

• Healthy male and female (n=40) participants between the ages of 18 - 35 years of age will finish the study protocol. An even distribution of males (n=20) and females (n=20) is planned.
• Participating in some form of exercise at least four days per week with at least two days consisting of some form of high-intensity exercise for the past six months.
• Examples include regular gym attendance to complete resistance training, interval exercise, or participation in some form of organized physical activity involving high-speed running or other forms of high-intensity exercise.
• Have a body mass index (BMI) range of 18.0 - 30.0 kg/m2. Males with a body mass index greater than 30.0 kg/m2, but a body fat percentage less than 27.5% fat will be accepted into the study. Females with a body mass index greater than 30.0 kg/m2, but a body fat percentage less than 32.5% fat will be accepted into the study.

Exclusion criteria

• Participant has a positive medical history of heart disease/cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension (140/90 or greater mmHg), kidney disease (dialysis or renal failure), hepatic impairment or disease, or Type I or Type II diabetes.
• Participant has a positive medical history of unstable thyroid disease, previously diagnosed major affective disorder, psychiatric disorder that required hospitalization in the prior year, immune disorder (i.e., HIV/AIDS), a history of cancer (except localized skin cancer without metastases or in situ cervical cancer within five years prior to screening visit.
• Participant has an abnormality or obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract precluding swallowing (e.g. dysphagia) and digestion (e.g., known intestinal malabsorption, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, steatorrhea)
• Positive medical history for any neurological condition or neurological disease
• Currently smoke or have quit within the past six months
• Current daily use of aspirin, NSAIDS, naproxen sodium, COX-2 inhibitors, or any other over-the-counter or prescribed medication indicated for pain relief.
• Intake of any dietary supplement known or purported to impact muscle repair and recovery such as antioxidants, curcumin, turmeric, branched-chain amino acids, vitamin D, tart cherry, pomegranate, fish oils, or creatine monohydrate.
• Individuals who indicate they are actively involved in any form of a dietary program in the past 30 days to lose weight
• Participants who are lactating, pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Have a known sensitivity or allergy to any of the study products
• Any condition or abnormality that, in the opinion of the investigator, would compromise the safety of the participant or the quality of the study data
• History of alcohol or substance abuse in the 12 months prior to screening
• Receipt or use of an investigational product in another research study within 28 days prior to baseline testing