Turmeric and Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Oxinflammation

The purpose of this study is to measure the effect of using a turmeric-based supplement for 2-weeks on muscle damage and soreness that occur in the body after 90-minutes of exercise. Participants will first come to the human performance lab (HPL) for orientation and pre-study fitness tests including muscular fitness and body composition. Participants will be randomized to turmeric or placebo groups, and take 2 tablets of the supplements each day for the first two weeks. Participants will report back to the HPL on a Monday to engage in weight lifting and calisthenics for 90 minutes. Fitness tests (vertical jump, bench press, leg-back lift for strength, 30-second cycling sprint test) and blood samples will be given and collected before and after this exercise session. Participants will then come back to the HPL each morning, Tuesday through Friday, in the early morning to provide blood samples and retake the fitness tests. This study will entail seven HPL visits over a 3-week period.