Dietary Supplement Strategies During Conditioning Training in Athletes: A Network Meta-Analysis of Peak and Mean Anaerobic Power, VO₂max, and Endurance Performance.

Our assessment

This study is a network meta-analysis, meaning it combined results from multiple trials to compare different supplements head-to-head. The researchers analyzed data on six common dietary supplements — protein, creatine, β-alanine, HMB, vitamin D, and nitrate — and their effects on key performance measures during conditioning training in athletes. The outcomes studied were peak anaerobic power, mean anaerobic power, VO₂max (a measure of aerobic fitness), and endurance performance. The study was published in 2025. The exact number of participants and trial duration are not available in the provided data.

What this means for you: If you are an athlete or someone in conditioning training, this analysis aimed to clarify which supplements may help with explosive power, sustained effort, and overall endurance. Because this is a meta-analysis, it provides a broader view than any single study, but the results depend on the quality and size of the underlying trials. Since the sample size is not specified, treat these findings as a high-level comparison rather than a final verdict [Data not available].

How it works

The study compared six supplements that work through different biological pathways. For example, creatine helps recharge energy quickly for short bursts of power, while β-alanine buffers acid in muscles to delay fatigue. Nitrate (often from beetroot juice) improves blood flow and oxygen efficiency, and vitamin D supports muscle function and recovery. Protein and HMB (a leucine metabolite) are more commonly linked to muscle repair and growth. The researchers specifically focused on energy-system performance — peak and mean anaerobic power, VO₂max, and endurance — rather than strength or muscle size, which had been the focus of earlier reviews [Data not available].

What this means for you: Different supplements target different types of performance. If you are training for short, explosive efforts (like sprinting or weightlifting), creatine or β-alanine may be more relevant. For longer, aerobic activities (like running or cycling), nitrate or vitamin D could play a bigger role. This study helps match the supplement to your specific training goal [Data not available].

Safety profile

Data not available. The provided study abstract does not include any information on side effects, adverse events, or safety concerns for any of the six supplements. No FDA adverse event report counts are available in the data for this specific study [FDA data not provided].

What this means for you: Without safety data from this study, you should rely on general guidelines. Most of these supplements are considered safe at recommended doses for healthy adults, but individual responses can vary. Always check with a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions [Data not available].

Our recommendation

Based on the data provided, this network meta-analysis is a useful tool for comparing supplements side-by-side for specific performance outcomes, but it does not provide enough detail for a definitive personal recommendation. The sample size and study durations are not reported, which limits how much you can apply these findings to your own training [Data not available].

What this means for you: If you are considering a supplement for conditioning training, start with the one that matches your primary goal — creatine for power, β-alanine for high-intensity endurance, or nitrate for aerobic efficiency. Since the data here does not include safety reports or dosage guidance, consult a sports dietitian or your doctor to tailor the choice to your needs. No single supplement is a substitute for consistent training and proper nutrition [Data not available].