Ergogenic aid is anything that enhances a person’s ability to perform work, or in the case of athletics, to perform better in sport. The ultimate goal is to gain a competitive edge over the opponent. Different type of ergogenic aid: Nutritional, physiological, psychological, biomechanical, and pharmacological. Example of Nutritional: Carbohydrate loading; amino acid supplementation, liquid meals. Example of Physiological: Bicarbonate buffering; any type of physical training, blood doping via transfusion; the practice of warming up. Example of Psychological: visualization; session with a sport psychologist, hypnosis; pep talks; relaxation techniques. Example of Biomechanical: weight belts; knee wraps; oversize tennis rackets and gold clubs. Example of Pharmacological: Hormones(growth hormone), amphetamines; caffeine.
2. What does the acronym DSHEA stand for? What are the ramifications of DSHEA in regard to the use and safety of certain ergogenic aids? (pp. 259)
DSHEA stands for Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.
DSHEA, the supplement manufacturer is responsible for the safety of the product. The supplement manufacturer is not required to test its product for safety, nor does it have to provethat the supplement does what it claims to do. Athletes need to be aware of the safety, efficacy, actions, and laws regarding dietary supplements.
3. What tools does a health educator have available to research information about old or new nutritional supplements and other ergogenic aids? (pp. 277-280)
Internet sources provide information about banned substances, and others are designed to help consumers make informed choices about supplement use. A few websites: National Collegiate Atheletics Association ( find specidic supplements, list of NCAA banned substances, nutrition information), Consumer Labs ( product reviews on many