Get more exercise: Scientists have found a new treatment for exercise-induced fatigue. 

 Gym for tired women 

A recent study showed that inhaling hydrogen-rich gas (HRG) before exercise  significantly reduces fatigue and improves performance in acute training situations. This international study, which involved a multidisciplinary team from the United States and China, suggests that HRG may  reduce oxidative stress and improve athletes' health  and training effects. 

New research shows that inhaling hydrogen-rich gas before exercise significantly reduces fatigue and improves performance, potentially benefiting athletes and fitness enthusiasts by improving their exercise and health. 

A recent study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine suggests a possible new treatment for exercise-induced fatigue. Researchers from a global, multidisciplinary team, including members from the United States and China, as well as the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute of Aging at Hebrew Senior Life,, found that inhaling hydrogen-rich gas (HRG) before a brief period of physical activity significantly reduced fatigue and improved performance. It can improve performance.  The study involved 24 healthy adult males, who were tested for  maximum cycling power (Wmax) and maximum cycling time (Tmax). In a double-blind, counterbalanced, randomized, and crossover design, participants inhaled  HRG or placebo gas (air) for 60 minutes and then cycled to fatigue at 80% Wmax. 

Key findings of the study 

Reduced fatigue: Participants who inhaled HRG had significantly lower visual analog scale (VAS) scores  for fatigue than participants who inhaled placebo gas. 

 Improved exercise performance: HRG inhalation increased cycling frequency during the last 30 seconds of  exercise and reduced ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) both at  the beginning and end of the ride. 

 Oxidative stress markers: HRG inhalation showed  significant improvements in the ability to inhibit hydroxyl radicals and reduce post-exercise serum lactate levels, suggesting reduced oxidative stress.  Functional performance: HRG did not significantly affect countermovement jump (CMJ) height or glutathione peroxidase activity, but the overall benefits in terms of fatigue and oxidative stress markers were notable. 

This study opens new avenues for exploring the benefits of hydrogen-rich gas in sports and exercise science. If research continues, HRG inhalation could become more widely used to improve exercise performance and combat exercise-induced fatigue.  Reference: "Inhalation of hydrogen-rich gas before acute exercise reduces exercise fatigue" Gengxin Dong, Jianxin Wu, Yinglu Hon, Qian Li, Meng Liu, Guole Jiang, Dapeng Bao, Brad Manor, Junhong Zhou,  May 2, 2024, International Journal of Sports Medicine.