Hydrogen Water Increases Endurance

Hydrogen Water Improves Hill Running Performance in Athletes

Consuming hydrogen-rich water helps increase endurance in athletes. It improves muscle performance and strength characteristics. The main reasons for this are hydrogen’s proven action as a powerful antioxidant and its ability to neutralize harmful free radicals. Therefore, hydrogen-rich water reduces oxidative stress and the resulting muscle fatigue during intense physical exertion. This is the conclusion of a study conducted by Palacký University Olomouc (Czech Republic), in which a total of 16 male athletes participated.

What was the purpose of the study?

The study was designed to examine the effects of hydrogen-rich water intake on running uphill. It tracked physiological and performance responses as well as perceptions following an intense training session. The participants had an average age of about 31 years. The athletes were tested by completing two 4.2-kilometer uphill running races over a one-week period.

What does the study involve?

The study consists of two sessions. During the first session, participants were divided into two groups (one receiving 1,680 ml of hydrogen-rich water and the other receiving plain water). Participants were instructed to follow a specific diet—avoiding dietary supplements, sports drinks, and coffee. A training regimen was also established, which participants must follow starting one week before the first competition and continuing until the end of the study. Training sessions are conducted 4 to 6 times per week, with each session lasting between 45 and 140 minutes. One day before each race, the perceived exertion of both groups is assessed. The race time itself is measured manually using a digital timer. The second session is conducted in the same manner as the first one week later.

What do the results show?

At the end of the study, it was found that participants in the hydrogen-rich water group were significantly faster at running uphill compared to participants in the plain water group. This is mainly due to increased respiratory activity of the mitochondria and increased production of adenosine triphosphate. Another benefit is the reduction in blood lactate levels. Lactate is produced by muscle cells, red blood cells, the brain, and other tissues when oxygen is in short supply. That is why good hydration is necessary to lower lactate levels.

What are the conclusions from the study on hydrogen-rich water?

Thanks to the results of this study, as well as numerous others, it has been confirmed that hydrogen-rich water has a beneficial effect on athletes because:

• It aids in the body’s hydration;
• It hydrates the body up to 6 times faster than all other types of water;
• It increases muscle endurance and strength;
• It improves hill running times;
• It lowers blood lactate levels;
• It improves muscle function;
• It regulates blood pH;
• Reduces post-workout muscle fatigue;
• Reduces pain after intense exercise.