Effects of Oral Salt Supplementation on Physical Performance During a Half-ironman

Background: Ultradistance athletes frequently consume salt supplements during competitions to compensate the loss of electrolytes by sweating. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of oral salt supplementation to improve exercise performance during a half-ironman triathlon. Methodology: Twenty-six experienced triathletes were matched for age, anthropometric data and training status and randomly placed into the salt group (113 mmol Na+ and 112 mmol Cl-) or the control group (cellulose). The experimental treatments were provided in unidentifiable capsules and were ingested before and during the race. Participants competed in a real half-ironman triathlon and race time was measured by means of chip timing. Pre and post-race, body mass, maximal force during a whole-body isometric strength test, maximal height during a countermovement jump, and blood samples were obtained. Sweat samples were obtained during the running section.