Abstract

This study examined whether acute caffeine mouth rinsing (CMR) influences high-intensity intermittent performance, cognitive outcomes, and blood lactate levels in collegiate male hockey players. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover design, 22 male athletes (age 18 ± 1.49 years, height 182 ± 9 cm, mass 60 ± 6.8 kg) completed the Yo-Yo IR1 protocol following CMR (1.3% solution, 3 mg/kg in 75 ml, 10 s exposure) or placebo. No significant differences were observed in distance covered (1360 ± 391 m vs. 1300 ± 360 m, p = 0.16, Cohen’s d = 0.16), reaction time (787.12 ± 191.76 ms vs. 765.55 ± 124.84 ms, p = 0.61, d = 0.13), or blood lactate (8.70 ± 1.91 vs. 8.51 ± 2.24 mmol/L, p = 0.68, d = 0.09). Acute CMR did not significantly enhance high-intensity intermittent exercise performance, cognitive reaction time, or blood lactate levels in this population.

Key words

caffeine mouth rinse, high-intensity intermittent exercise, cognitive performance, blood lactate, endurance