Author Date

2026-03-13

Degree Name

BS

Department

Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science

College

Life Sciences

Defense Date

2026-03-06

Publication Date

2026-03-16

First Faculty Advisor

Dr. James LeCheminant

First Faculty Reader

Dr. Karen Della Corte

Second Faculty Reader

Dr. Chad Hancock

Honors Coordinator

Dr. Susan Fullmer

Keywords

Beta-Alanine, Strength, Resistance Training

Abstract

Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid synthesized endogenously through hepatic metabolism of uracil and obtained in small amounts from dietary sources. In skeletal muscle, beta-alanine combines with histidine to form carnosine, a dipeptide that functions as an intracellular buffer. Beta-alanine is commonly used as a dietary supplement and is frequently included in pre-workout formulations as an ergogenic aid for high-intensity exercise. Beta-alanine supplementation increases intramuscular carnosine concentrations, which may enhance intracellular buffering capacity by regulating hydrogen ion accumulation and delaying fatigue during intense activity.1,2 Although much research has examined beta-alanine supplementation in endurance, sprinting, and repeated high-intensity exercise contexts its specific relevance to resistance training and maximal strength output in weightlifting performance remains unclear.3,4

In totality, the literature suggests that beta-alanine supplementation may confer some benefits for fatigue resistance and training volume, particularly during exercise programs involving moderate to high repetitions or repeated high-intensity efforts, based on a narrative synthesis of approximately 45 screened studies, of which 12 met inclusion criteria.5,6,7 Peer-reviewed studies involving healthy adult populations engaged in structured resistance training were evaluated with respect to strength, power, muscular endurance, fatigue resistance, and training volume. Rather than conducting a systematic review or meta-analysis, evidence was organized thematically, with comparisons made across training modalities, participant characteristics, dosing strategies, and study designs.3,4 Also, little research has examined Olympic-style weightlifting or long-term resistance training. Interpretation of these findings is complicated by substantial variation in supplementation dose and duration, resistance training protocols, repetition ranges, rest intervals, and participant training status across studies.

Beta-alanine supplementation appears to have limited, context-dependent effects for resistance-trained individuals. This narrative review clarifies where empirical evidence supports beta-alanine supplementation and where supplement marketing claims exceed available data. These findings have practical implications for everyone in the strength-based performance athletic world seeking evidence-based recommendations on when to use beta-alanine as an ergogenic aid.

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