A suplementação de gengibre (Zingiber officinale) pode potencializar o desempenho no CrossFit®? Um ensaio clínico sobre o teste AMRAP 10'

Abstract

CrossFit® is characterized as a high-intensity sport modality with elevated metabolic and neuromuscular demands, in which the ability to sustain performance under fatigue conditions is a key determinant of competitive success. In this context, the use of ergogenic aids has been widely investigated, including natural supplements with potential effects on physical performance. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) stands out for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, which may positively influence tolerance to effort during intense exercise. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ginger supplementation on physical performance and perceived exertion in CrossFit® practitioners during a 10-minute AMRAP test. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 32 CrossFit® practitioners (17 in the ginger group and 15 in the placebo group) who underwent seven days of supplementation (2 g·day−1). Performance was assessed by the total number of repetitions completed during the test, while perceived exertion was measured using a validated scale, in addition to recording final heart rate. The results indicated a significant effect on performance (F1,29 = 5.95; p = 0.021; ηp2 = 0.17), with the ginger group achieving a higher number of repetitions (241.6 ± 18.2 vs. 225.9 ± 17.5 reps). A significant reduction in perceived exertion was also observed (F1,29 = 24.11; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.45), with moderate to large effect sizes. There was no significant difference in final heart rate between groups (p = 0.065). It is concluded that short-term ginger supplementation may act as an auxiliary ergogenic aid, contributing to improved performance and greater tolerance to effort during high-intensity exercises characteristic of CrossFit®. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to elucidate the underlying physiological mechanisms.