Acute Effects of Citrulline Malate and L-Arginine, Alone and in Combination, on Anaerobic Performance Indicators in Highly Trained Taekwondo Athletes

Why It Matters

The findings suggest that acute NO‑precursor supplementation can meaningfully enhance anaerobic output, agility and explosive power in high‑intensity combat sports, offering athletes a potential legal ergogenic edge.

Key Takeaways

• Combined CITMAL+L‑ARG raised peak power by ~18%
• Agility time cut ~10% with combo supplement
• CMJ height increased nearly 23% after combined dose
• Post‑exercise lactate reduced ~15% versus placebo
• Single supplements showed modest gains; combo outperformed both

Pulse Analysis

Nitric‑oxide precursors such as citrulline malate and L‑arginine have long been marketed to athletes seeking better blood flow and reduced fatigue, yet research results have been inconsistent. In endurance contexts the benefits are modest, while high‑intensity, intermittent sports like taekwondo demand rapid phosphocreatine regeneration and swift clearance of metabolic by‑products. By targeting the NO pathway, these supplements theoretically improve vasodilation, oxygen delivery, and waste removal, creating a physiological environment conducive to repeated explosive efforts.

The recent crossover study provides concrete evidence that a single acute dose of 8 g citrulline malate combined with 6 g L‑arginine can elevate Wingate peak power by roughly 18% and improve relative power output per kilogram of body mass. Equally striking are the 10% faster agility times and a 23% increase in countermovement jump height—metrics directly linked to kicking speed and defensive maneuvers in taekwondo competition. Moreover, the combined regimen lowered post‑exercise lactate by about 15%, indicating more efficient metabolic clearance. These performance gains surpass those observed with either supplement alone, suggesting a synergistic interaction that may be especially valuable during tournament bouts where athletes face multiple high‑intensity rounds.

For practitioners, the data support incorporating a pre‑competition dose of citrulline malate and L‑arginine as part of a broader nutrition strategy, provided the athlete tolerates the 14 g total load without gastrointestinal distress. While the study’s sample size is modest and long‑term effects remain untested, the acute benefits align with the growing demand for evidence‑based legal ergogenics in combat sports. Brands may capitalize on these results by formulating combined NO‑precursor products, but marketers should emphasize the need for individualized testing and further research to validate chronic usage and safety.