Conditions or Focus of StudyAX-FATIGUENCT07509970
Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Soccer Performance Under Fatigue
A study testing Astaxanthin in people with Conditions or Focus of Study and Exercise-Induced Fatigue, run by Beijing Sport University at 1 site in China.
Trial summary
This study aims to investigate the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance under fatigue in soccer players. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, participants were assigned to receive either astaxanthin or placebo for 4 weeks. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 25 years, men onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Conditions or Focus of Study, Exercise-Induced Fatigue, Soccer Performance
- What is being tested?
- Astaxanthin
- Type of treatment
- Pill or oral medicine
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 30 participants
- Where
- 1 siteChina
- Study dates
- 1 Jan 2026to 8 Feb 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 25 years
- Men only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- - Male soccer players aged 18 to 25 years.
- Healthy collegiate soccer players with regular soccer training experience.
- Participated in systematic soccer training for at least 3 years and regular training at least 3 times per week during the previous 6 months.
- Able to complete the supplementation protocol, exhaustive exercise protocol, and all performance assessments.
- Provided written informed consent before participation.
Who cannot join
- - Current musculoskeletal injury, pain, or illness affecting exercise performance or test participation.
- History of cardiovascular, metabolic, neurological, or other medical disorders that could affect study safety or outcomes.
- Use of antioxidant, ergogenic, or nutritional supplements that could influence study outcomes within 4 weeks before enrollment.
- Known allergy or intolerance to astaxanthin or capsule ingredients.
- Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or use of medications that could affect fatigue, performance, or physiological responses.
- Failure to comply with study procedures or intervention requirements.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Effects of Four-Week Astaxanthin Supplementation on Soccer-Specific Performance, Neuromuscular Function, and Fatigue-Related Biomarkers Under Exhaustive Exercise in Soccer Players
This study aims to investigate the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance under fatigue in soccer players. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, participants were assigned to receive either astaxanthin or placebo for 4 weeks. After the supplementation period, participants completed an exhaustive exercise protocol followed by assessments of soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related responses. The study is designed to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation can attenuate fatigue-related declines in performance and improve recovery-related outcomes in soccer players.
Read the detailed description
Soccer is characterized by repeated high-intensity efforts, rapid changes of direction, technical execution, and decision-making under physically demanding conditions. Fatigue induced by exhaustive exercise may impair neuromuscular performance, technical skills, and cognitive function. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties and has been suggested to help reduce exercise-related oxidative stress and fatigue. However, evidence regarding its effects on soccer-specific performance under fatigue remains limited.
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related biomarkers under exhaustive exercise conditions in soccer players. This study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design. Eligible soccer players were assigned to either an astaxanthin supplementation group or a placebo group for 4 weeks.
After the intervention period, participants completed a standardized exhaustive exercise protocol to induce fatigue. Outcome assessments were then performed to evaluate soccer-specific performance and fatigue-related responses. The primary objective was to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation could reduce fatigue-related performance decline. Secondary objectives were to examine its effects on neuromuscular function and selected fatigue-related physiological responses.
The findings of this study may help clarify the potential role of astaxanthin supplementation as a nutritional strategy to support performance maintenance under fatigue in soccer players.
- Being tested
- Astaxanthin, Placebo
- Keywords
- Astaxanthin, Soccer, Fatigue, Exhaustive Exercise, Sports Performance
- Medical subject headings
- Fatigue
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
AstaxanthinDietary supplement
Astaxanthin capsules were administered orally once daily for 4 weeks.
PlaceboOther
Placebo capsules matched in appearance and packaging were administered orally once daily for 4 weeks.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Astaxanthin Group | Experimental | Participants in this arm received astaxanthin supplementation for 4 weeks. Receives: Dietary Supplement: Astaxanthin |
| Placebo Group | Placebo comparator | Participants in this arm received placebo capsules for 4 weeks. Receives: Other: Placebo |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Loughborough Soccer Passing Test total time
The total time required to complete the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test was used to assess soccer-specific technical performance under fatigue.
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Secondary outcomes (5)
Repeated sprint ability total time
The total time required to complete the repeated sprint ability test was used to assess sprint performance under fatigue
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Countermovement jump height
Countermovement jump height was used to assess lower-body neuromuscular performance under fatigue.
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Soccer dribbling performance time
The time required to complete the soccer dribbling test was used to assess technical performance under fatigue.
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Decision-making accuracy
Decision-making accuracy was used to assess cognitive performance under fatigue during soccer-specific testing.
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Fatigue-related biomarkers
Fatigue-related physiological and biochemical markers were assessed to examine fatigue-related responses after the intervention.
Measured: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed after completion of the exhaustive exercise protocol
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted3 Apr 2026
- Study start1 Jan 2026
- Primary completion5 Feb 2026
- Study completion8 Feb 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Conditions or Focus of StudyStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design. Participants were assigned to either astaxanthin supplementation or placebo for 4 weeks, with outcome assessments performed under exhaustive exercise conditions.
- Masking
- Triple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Investigator, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Beijing Sport University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Yue Dou, Beijing Sport University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07509970
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 2026039H
- Acronym
- AX-FATIGUE
- Status last verified
- Mar 2026
- First submitted
- 28 Mar 2026
- Last updated
- 3 Apr 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 3 Apr 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Four-Week Astaxanthin Supplementation on Soccer-Specific Performance, Neuromuscular Function, and Fatigue-Related Biomarkers Under Exhaustive Exercise in Soccer Players
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07509970
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- AX-FATIGUE / 2026039H
- Keywords
- Astaxanthin, Soccer, Fatigue, Exhaustive Exercise, Sports Performance
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 30 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Beijing Sport UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 5 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 8 Feb 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 3 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This study aims to investigate the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance under fatigue in soccer players. Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, participants were assigned to receive either astaxanthin or placebo for 4 weeks. After the supplementation period, participants completed an exhaustive exercise protocol followed by assessments of soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related responses. The study is designed to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation can attenuate fatigue-related declines in performance and improve recovery-related outcomes in soccer players.
Detailed description
Soccer is characterized by repeated high-intensity efforts, rapid changes of direction, technical execution, and decision-making under physically demanding conditions. Fatigue induced by exhaustive exercise may impair neuromuscular performance, technical skills, and cognitive function. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties and has been suggested to help reduce exercise-related oxidative stress and fatigue. However, evidence regarding its effects on soccer-specific performance under fatigue remains limited.
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of four-week astaxanthin supplementation on soccer-specific performance, neuromuscular function, and fatigue-related biomarkers under exhaustive exercise conditions in soccer players. This study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design. Eligible soccer players were assigned to either an astaxanthin supplementation group or a placebo group for 4 weeks.
After the intervention period, participants completed a standardized exhaustive exercise protocol to induce fatigue. Outcome assessments were then performed to evaluate soccer-specific performance and fatigue-related responses. The primary objective was to determine whether astaxanthin supplementation could reduce fatigue-related performance decline. Secondary objectives were to examine its effects on neuromuscular function and selected fatigue-related physiological responses.
The findings of this study may help clarify the potential role of astaxanthin supplementation as a nutritional strategy to support performance maintenance under fatigue in soccer players.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Basic science
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Triple blind (participant, investigator, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- This study used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design. Participants were assigned to either astaxanthin supplementation or placebo for 4 weeks, with outcome assessments performed under exhaustive exercise conditions.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Astaxanthin Group | Experimental | Dietary Supplement: AstaxanthinParticipants in this arm received astaxanthin supplementation for 4 weeks. |
| Placebo Group | Placebo comparator | Other: PlaceboParticipants in this arm received placebo capsules for 4 weeks. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 25 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- - Male soccer players aged 18 to 25 years.
- Healthy collegiate soccer players with regular soccer training experience.
- Participated in systematic soccer training for at least 3 years and regular training at least 3 times per week during the previous 6 months.
- Able to complete the supplementation protocol, exhaustive exercise protocol, and all performance assessments.
- Provided written informed consent before participation.
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- - Current musculoskeletal injury, pain, or illness affecting exercise performance or test participation.
- History of cardiovascular, metabolic, neurological, or other medical disorders that could affect study safety or outcomes.
- Use of antioxidant, ergogenic, or nutritional supplements that could influence study outcomes within 4 weeks before enrollment.
- Known allergy or intolerance to astaxanthin or capsule ingredients.
- Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or use of medications that could affect fatigue, performance, or physiological responses.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| AstaxanthinAstaxanthin capsules were administered orally once daily for 4 weeks. | Dietary supplement | Astaxanthin Group |
| PlaceboPlacebo capsules matched in appearance and packaging were administered orally once daily for 4 weeks. | Other | Placebo Group |
Primary outcome
Loughborough Soccer Passing Test total time
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
The total time required to complete the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test was used to assess soccer-specific technical performance under fatigue.
5 secondary outcomes
Repeated sprint ability total time
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Countermovement jump height
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Soccer dribbling performance time
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Decision-making accuracy
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol
Fatigue-related biomarkers
Time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed after completion of the exhaustive exercise protocol
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 3 Apr 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Astaxanthin in people with Conditions or Focus of Study and Exercise-Induced Fatigue, run by Beijing Sport University at 1 site in China.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 3 Apr 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in China. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Loughborough Soccer Passing Test total time (time frame: After 4 weeks of supplementation, assessed immediately after the exhaustive exercise protocol). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 3 Apr 2026.