EPISODE 07: Why bicarbonate might change endurance performance
In this episode of UNLOCKING PERFORMANCE, host Till Schenk is joined by Robert Gorgos, Dr. Julien Louis and Paul Booth for an in-depth discussion about one of the most established performance supplements in sport: sodium bicarbonate. The conversation starts with the basics: what bicarbonate actually does, why it can delay fatigue during high-intensity efforts, and why modern formulations have made it far easier to use than the traditional baking-soda approach. The experts also discuss dosage, timing, gastrointestinal tolerance, sodium intake, hydration, and why bicarbonate should always be tested in training before competition. From there, the episode moves into newer territory. While bicarbonate has traditionally been associated with short, intense efforts, recent research is beginning to explore its role during longer endurance events. Julien explains new findings on bicarbonate ingestion during prolonged cycling, while Robert and Paul discuss where it may help preserve late-race power, support fatigue resistance, and potentially become relevant for climbs, attacks, sprint finishes, and other decisive moments after hours of prior effort. The episode also looks at practical protocols for training and racing, when bicarbonate makes sense and when it probably does not, how it interacts with caffeine and hydration, and why not every athlete needs the same strategy. If you want to understand where bicarbonate really fits into endurance performance, how the science is evolving, and how to use it intelligently rather than simply following the hype, this episode gives you the full picture. If you’re a new customer, use code MNSTRYPODCAST20 to get 20% off your TASTING BOX. Visit our shop at www.mnstry.com If you want to dive deeper into the science behind performance nutrition and bicarb, you can find more articles, practical guidance, and insights from our team of experts on our blog. And if you’d like to learn more about MNSTRY, our products, and the philosophy behind what we do, you can explore everything on our website. If you have questions about this episode or want to share your thoughts with us, we’re always happy to hear from you by email or Instagram. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | BLOG
