Background: Capsaicin supplementation can lead to improved performance in explosive or strength exercises. Its effects on sprint performance in swimming were not investigated. Aim: To evaluate the effects of the acute supplementation with capsaicin, either alone or combined with warm-up exercises, on 50*m freestyle sprint performance, vertical jump performance, blood lactate concentrations and perceptual responses. Methods: Nine swimmers (22.8*±*4.34*years) received capsaicin, placebo, or capsaicin combined with a warm-up exercise protocol 45*minutes before a 50*m freestyle sprint. The following variables were assessed: total and split swim times (50*m, 15*m, and 35*m), vertical jump height, blood lactate concentrations (pre* and post*sprints), rating of perceived exertion, motivation and readiness, and mood state. Results: There were no significant effect of supplementation or the combined interventions on sprint performance. However, prior swimming warm-up significantly increased vertical jump height (p = 0.003) and blood lactate concentrations, both pre- and post-exercise (p < 0.05), with no interaction with supplementation. Preparatory exercises (warm-up) also reduced perceived fatigue (p = 0.007). No changes were observed in RPE, motivation, or readiness. Conclusion: Capsaicin supplementation did not affect sprint performance. However, the preparatory exercise significantly enhanced vertical jump height, increased blood lactate concentrations, and reduced perceived fatigue before the swimming sprint.
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