Nutritional Ergogenic Aids Case Study
Craig, a 16-year-old high school track athlete, as set a goal to improve his 100 and 200 m sprint times. He has seen the muscle development evident in elite sprinters and therefore desperately wants to increase his muscle mass, strength, and power. After talking about training regimens, daily nutrition, and supplementation with numerous other athletes at track meets, he has decided to begin taking several supplements to help him reach his goals. His mother is very conscientious about preparing a nourishing supper; however, Craig prepares his own breakfast and lunch, which he admits typically do not consist of quality food choices. Currently, he is resistance training 2 to 3 times per week and taking the following supplements: “mega” multivitamin/mineral supplement, boron, ornithine and arginine, chromium picolinate, and whey protein.
Discuss the ergogenic aids listed, are they necessary, what are the advantages/disadvantages of their use? What would you suggest to Craig to help him achieve his personal goal of increasing muscle mass to becoming stronger, more powerful athlete?
