Effects of Creatine Supplementation and Resistance Training on Body Composition and Strength in Older Individuals

PURPOSE: Examine the chronic effects of combined creatine monohydrate supplementation and resistance training on body composition and muscle strength in older males. METHODS: Twenty non-ressitance trained males (61.05±4.95 yrs, 176.17±6.21 cm, 69.15±2.44 kg) were randomized in a double blind manner. Participants ingested either creatine monoydrate [20g/d CrM + 5g Carbohydrate (CHO) × 7 days, then 5g/d CrM +5g CHO × 77 days] or carbohydrate placebo (20g/d CHO × 7 days, then 5g/d CHO × 77 days) while participating in a high intensity resistance training program (3 sets × 10 repetitions at 75% of 1RM), 3 days per week for 12 weeks. Testing sessions were completed prior to, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks post resistance training and supplementation. Each testing session included body composition measurement as determined by Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), muscle strength measurement as determined by 1 repetition maximum (RM) on leg press and bench press. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. RESULTS: A significant time effect was observed for 1RM bench press (0 weeks: 66.02kg ± 16.41kg vs. 12 weeks: 73.29kg ± 17.19 kg, p=0.016), leg press (0 weeks: 272.72kg ± 70.51kg vs. 12 weeks: 338.06kg ± 78.27kg, p<0.05), body mass (0 weeks: 91.31kg ± 13.91kg vs. 12 weeks: 92.49kg ± 13.68kg, p=0.030), and fat free mass (0 weeks: 57.75kg ± 9.19kg vs. 12 weeks: 59.00 kg ± 9.18 kg, p<0.005). However, no significant group or group by time interaction was observed. CONCLUSION: Creatine supplementation when combined with 12-weeks of high intensity resistance training does not enhance body composition and muscle strength in older males. Supplement was donated by Alzchem LLC-A Degussa Company.