ABSTRACT
Exercise-induced oxidative stress is the major cause of tissue damage and fatigue that influence exercise performance. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) possesses mitochondrial bioenergetics and antioxidant effects, which makes it a useful supplement to overcome oxidative stress. In this study, we aimed to understand the influence of CoQ10 supplementation on oxidative stress among middle- and long-distance male runners who performed strenuous exercise. The subjects were divided into two groups, namely CoQ10 group (n = 8) and placebo group (n = 7). The parameters observed were MDA plasma level before and after strenuous exercise, time to exhaustion, and Borg Scale. Both the study groups received CoQ10 or placebo for 20 days. The measurement was repeated after 20 days. The results of the analysis before and after supplementation indicated a significant difference in the alteration of the MDA plasma level before and after exercise at 60 min (p = 0.023) and 120 min (p = 0.049), as well as in the improvement of both time to exhaustion (p = 0.011) and Borg Scale (p = 0.026) measurements. CoQ10 supplementation for 20 days was able to reduce oxidative stress and increase the exercise performance of male runners who took strenuous exercise.
