Ergogenics
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Ergogenics: Commonly called ergogenic aids. Derived from the Greek word for "work", ergon, and genman, meaning "to generate or produce," the term ergogenic means increasing work or the potential to do work. These are any external influences that can be determined to enhance performance including mechanical aids, pharmacological aids, physiological aids, nutritional aids, and psychological aids. The most common ergogenic aids used by athletes and strength trainees are dietary supplements and anabolic steroids. See GUS Ergogenics Category.
Ergogenic aids can be separated into several categories, some of which may overlap:
- Nutritional - a dietary supplement, food product, or dietary manipulation that enhances athletic performance or work capacity. E.G. carbohydrate loading for endurance or creatine supplementation.
- Physiological - A substance or practice that intends to enhances functioning of the body's systems, such as cardiovascular output or muscular output, and thus improves athletic performance. E.G. bicarbonate loading, plyometric training, etc.
- Biomechanical - A device, such as a piece of equipment or external product, that can be used to improve athletic performance. E.G. lighter running shoes, weight belts or suits, corked bats.
- Pharmacological - A substance or compound that can be classified as a drug or hormonal agent that is used used to improve performance such as work output, endurance, or muscular strength. E.G. anabolic steroid, human growth hormone, caffeine, ephedrine.
- Psychological - A practice or treatment that enhances physical performance by changing the athlete's mental state. E.G. imagery and visualization, relaxation techniques.
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This page created 10 Oct 2011 16:14
Last updated 09 May 2012 13:37
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