Acute Effect of Capsimax on Resistance Exercise Performance, Muscle Oxygenation, Nitric Oxide Release, Resting Energy Expenditure and Reaction Time

Capsimax is a novel, proprietary encapsulated form of capsaicin, a natural and bioactive phytochemical found in chili pepper and other spicy food. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of Capsimax on resistance exercise performance, reaction time, and resting energy expenditure around exercise. This investigation will also measure muscle oxygenation and intramuscular nitric oxide in real time during resistance exercise using a non-invasive wearable technology. Primary Objective • To examine the effects of Capsimax on physical performance metrics including peak power and rate of force development during an isometric strength test and performance during the barbell back squat exercise protocol (e.g., repetitions performed, total volume, peak power, average power). Secondary Objectives * To examine the effects of Capsimax on resting energy expenditure around exercise. * To examine the effects of Capsimax on nitric oxide bioavailability and skeletal muscle oxygenation during exercise. Exploratory Objective • To examine the effects of Capsimax on reaction time around exercise