Effects of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Anaerobic Performance and Fatigue Responses in Competitive Break Dancers

Breaking is a physically demanding discipline characterized by repeated high-intensity movements and substantial anaerobic demands. This study aimed to examine the effects of four weeks of beta-alanine supplementation on anaerobic performance and fatigue-related responses in competitive break dancers. Twenty-four male competitive break dancers participated in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study. Participants completed two supplementation conditions: beta-alanine (6.4 g·day⁻¹) and placebo (6.4 g·day⁻¹ maltodextrin), each lasting four weeks and separated by a two-week washout period. Performance was assessed before and after each phase using a standardized testing sequence consisting of a pre-exercise countermovement jump, the Running Anaerobic Sprint Test, a post-exercise countermovement jump, and ratings of perceived exertion. Significant condition × time interactions were observed for countermovement jump performance and Running Anaerobic Sprint Test mean power (p < 0.001). Post-exercise countermovement jump performance also improved following beta-alanine supplementation. However, an additional analysis of within-session countermovement jump loss (Post-CMJ − Pre-CMJ) did not demonstrate a significant attenuation of acute neuromuscular fatigue compared with placebo (p = 0.748). In addition, fatigue index and ratings of perceived exertion were significantly reduced compared with placebo (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that beta-alanine supplementation enhances anaerobic performance, improves countermovement jump performance, and reduces fatigue index and perceived exertion in competitive break dancers. Therefore, beta-alanine may be considered an effective ergogenic strategy for sports involving repeated high-intensity intermittent efforts.