Research-to-Practice: NZ Blackcurrant in climbers: performance effects

This video breaks down New Zealand blackcurrant as a lesser-known climbing supplement, covering what it is, what the research shows, and how it may impact performance. We look at both climbing-specific and broader sport studies, including effects on oxygen delivery, recovery between efforts, and local muscle endurance. The video also explores why response may vary between climbers, including differences in absorption, dosing, timing, and individual physiology.

Educational disclaimer: Educational content only. Not medical or nutrition advice. Individual responses vary.

References:
Braakhuis, A.J., Somerville, V.X. & Hurst, R.D. (2020). The effect of New Zealand blackcurrant on sport performance and related biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 17, 25. Link and License: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7251677/

Debevec, T., & Lee, B.J. (2020). On the climbing performance enhancing effects of New Zealand blackcurrant extract. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 120, 1471–1472.

Fryer, S., Paterson, C., Perkins, I., Gloster, C., Willems, M., & Potter, J. (2020). New Zealand blackcurrant extract enhances muscle oxygenation during forearm exercise in intermediate-level rock climbers. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 30, 1–6.

Fryer, S., Giles, D., Bird, E., Stone, K., Paterson, C., Baláš, J., Willems, M. E. T., Potter, J. A., & Perkins, I. C. (2021). New Zealand blackcurrant extract enhances muscle oxygenation during repeated intermittent forearm muscle contractions in advanced and elite rock climbers. European Journal of Sport Science, 21(9), 1290–1298.

Perkins, I. C., Blacker, S. D., & Willems, M. E. T. (2024). Individual responses to repeated dosing with anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant extract during high-intensity intermittent treadmill running in active males. Nutrients, 16(24), 4253. Link and License: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/386748781_Individual_Responses_to_Repeated_Dosing_with_Anthocyanin-Rich_New_Zealand_Blackcurrant_Extract_During_High-Intensity_Intermittent_Treadmill_Running_in_Active_Males

Potter, J. A., et al. (2020). Effects of New Zealand blackcurrant extract on sport climbing performance. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 120(1), 67–75.