The Effect of Zinc Magnesium Aspartate (ZMA) Supplementation on Body Composition and One Repetition Maximum in Sprinters

Athletes use supplements to enhance their maximal performance. This study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc magnesium aspartate (ZMA) supplements on the body composition and strength of male sprinters.

In this experimental study, sixteen sprinters (21-28 years old) were randomly divided into control and supplement (ZMA) groups. Control and supplement groups received dextrose and ZMA, respectively, for 8 weeks. Body composition and 1-RM of the upper body (dumbbell flat bench press and standing barbell biceps curl) and lower body (leg press machine, the lying hamstring curl with a weight machine, and leg extensions) were examined before and after 8 weeks. Data were analyzed using dependent and independent T-tests.

There was no significant difference between pre and post-intervention in control and supplement groups in body weight (Kg), body mass index (Kg/m2), body fat %, body fat (kg), fat-free mass (Kg) (p˃0.05). 1RM increased significantly post-intervention compared to pre-intervention in the supplement group (p=0. 005) but not in the control group (p= 0.02). 1RM in the upper and lower body increased significantly in the supplement group compared to the control in post-intervention (p=0.04, p= 0.03, respectively).

According to the research findings, ZMA supplement did not improve the body composition of sprinter athletes. It can probably lead to an increase in 1RM in sprinters' lower and upper limbs.