Effects of Combined Rhodiola Rosea and Caffeine Supplementation on Dancesport Performance

This study evaluates the effects of caffeine, Rhodiola rosea, and their combined supplementation on dancesport-specific performance in male collegiate dancesport athletes. Forty-eight healthy male athletes aged 18 to 23 years will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: placebo control, caffeine, Rhodiola rosea, or combined Rhodiola rosea plus caffeine. All participants will complete the same four-week standardized cowboy-dance-specific training program. The caffeine group will receive caffeine at 3 mg·kg-¹ before testing, the Rhodiola rosea group will receive Rhodiola rosea at 2.4 g·day-¹ for four weeks, and the combined group will receive both supplementation strategies. The main purpose of this study is to determine whether these supplementation strategies improve cowboy-dance-specific explosive power, movement stability, repeated kicking performance, agility, muscular endurance, and perceived exertion. Main outcomes include the 180-degree kick straight angle, kick recoil angle, trunk anterior-posterior sway amplitude, and 30-second cowboy-kick success rate. Secondary outcomes include qualified kick count, balance, core stability, functional strength, rhythm accuracy, agility tests, hexagon jump performance, and session-RPE.

Inclusion Criteria Male collegiate student aged 18 to 23 years. At least 3 years of systematic dancesport training experience. Stable dancesport training exposure, at least 3 sessions per week. Ability to complete the 4-week cowboy-dance-specific training program and pre/post performance testing. Completion of PAR-Q screening indicating suitability for high-intensity exercise testing. Written informed consent provided before participation. Exclusion Criteria Current or previous neuromuscular disease, severe cardiovascular disease, or musculoskeletal injury affecting lower-limb or trunk performance. Lower-limb, lumbar, or back injury that may interfere with testing. Use of medications or supplements that may interact with caffeine or Rhodiola rosea. Contraindication to caffeine or Rhodiola rosea supplementation. Regular intake of coffee, strong tea, energy drinks, other ergogenic supplements, alcohol, or caffeine-containing products within 3 months before enrollment. Smoking. Inability to maintain stable training, diet, sleep, and lifestyle habits during the study.