Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Effects of Short-term Acute Creatine Supplementation on Power, Speed and Muscular Strengths in Young Football Players

This study is investigating whether taking a creatine supplement for a short time can improve power, speed, and muscle strength in young, semi-professional football players. Researchers want to understand if creatine, which has been studied in strength training before, can effectively boost various aspects of performance needed in football. Previous research suggests creatine might help muscles produce energy more efficiently, retain water (which can support muscle growth), reduce muscle damage, and lessen inflammation. By identifying proven supplements, this study hopes to help athletes optimise their training and enhance their physical abilities to perform better on the pitch.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

St. Mary's University, Twickenham

Enrolment target

Start

01 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

13 Apr 2026

Performance Enhancement

What is this study about?

This research project is looking into how a common supplement called creatine might affect the performance of young, semi-professional football players. Specifically, the study wants to see if taking creatine for a short period can boost things like jump power, sprinting speed, and overall muscle strength – all of which are very important for success in football.

You might have heard of creatine before, especially in sports and fitness circles. It's often used because it's thought to help muscles produce energy more quickly and efficiently. The idea is that with more readily available energy, athletes might be able to perform at a higher intensity for longer, leading to better overall performance. The study will compare players who take creatine with those who take a 'placebo' – a dummy pill with no active ingredient – so we can clearly see any effects.

Ultimately, by finding out if creatine genuinely helps with these specific aspects of football performance, the study aims to provide valuable information. This could help players and coaches make informed decisions about training strategies and nutritional support to help athletes reach their full potential and perform better on the pitch.

Key takeaways

This study investigates creatine's impact on football performance.
It focuses on power, speed, and muscle strength in semi-professional players.
Participants will take either creatine or a placebo.
Performance will be measured through various physical tests.
The aim is to identify scientifically proven ways to enhance athlete performance.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, participants need to be men or women between 18 and 45 years old. You should currently be playing football at a semi-professional level, which means you play in regional leagues. You also need to be training or competing no more than three times a week.

It's important that you haven't had any serious, long-lasting injuries in the past six months and haven't used any creatine supplements in the last three months. You must also be able to swallow pills easily and not have any ongoing medical conditions that could affect your participation.

Unfortunately, you won't be able to take part if you are under 18 or over 45, don't play semi-professional football, or train/compete more than three times a week. If you have any current injuries, had a long-term injury recently, have taken creatine in the last three months, or have any medical conditions, you won't be eligible for this study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 45 years old?
Do you play semi-professional football at a regional level?
Do you train or compete no more than three times a week?
Have you been free from serious long-term injuries for the last six months?
Have you NOT taken creatine supplements in the last three months?
Do you have no ongoing medical conditions?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would be asked to take either a creatine supplement or a dummy pill (placebo) for a short period. You wouldn't know which one you are taking. Before starting, and likely at the end of the supplementation period, you would undergo a series of physical assessments. These assessments are designed to measure your power (like your jump height), speed (like sprint times), and muscle strength. The researchers will then compare how these measures change over time between the creatine and placebo groups. The total duration of your participation would involve the short supplementation period and a few assessment visits.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer you some potential benefits, such as gaining insights into your athletic performance and contributing to scientific knowledge about sports nutrition. If you receive the creatine supplement, you might experience improvements in power, speed, or strength, though this is not guaranteed. As with any study involving supplements, there's always a small chance of mild side effects, which would be explained to you in detail. However, the study is designed to be safe for healthy individuals. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual care or involvement with your football club.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

St Mary's University Twickenham London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is creatine?

Creatine is a natural substance found in muscle cells that helps produce energy during high-intensity exercise.

Will I know if I'm taking creatine or a dummy pill?

No, this is a 'blinded' study, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know if you're taking the active supplement or the placebo until after the study is complete.

How long will I need to take the supplement for?

The study involves short-term supplementation, meaning you'll take it for a limited period, which will be explained to you fully.

What kind of tests will I have?

You'll have tests to measure your power (like jumping), speed (like sprinting), and muscle strength.

Are there any side effects of creatine?

Creatine is generally considered safe for healthy individuals, but any potential minimal side effects would be discussed with you before you agree to participate.

How to find out more

Wiktor Dabrowski, Bsc

wiktord839@gmail.com +447526985253 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.