Anodal tDCS of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex extends time to exhaustion at maximal running speed

Abstract

Despite insights into supraspinal fatigue, it remains unclear whether non-invasive brainstimulation can acutely extend maximal running time. Here, the objective was to examine whetheranodal tDCS over the left DLPFC would prolong time to exhaustion (Tlim) and modulate perceivedexertion in trained men. TThe study involved 12 trained men (age: 25.1-5.3 years). Initially,participants performed a maximal incremental test on a treadmill to establish the maximum velocityassociated with maximum oxygen consumption (100% vVO 2Max ). Subsequently, the subjects underwenttwo experimental conditions: they performed the time limit test (Tlim) after applying anodal tDCS (a-tDCS) (2mA for 20 minutes) or a sham. The interventions were randomized, with a 48-hour intervalrespected between each visit. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected after the Tlim tests. There was a significant difference in Tlim (p=0.03), where the a-tDCS condition lasted longer(174.3s ± 34.4s) compared to the sham condition (159.5s ± 36.4s). Anodal tDCS applied tothe left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex acutely improved anaerobic power performance in trained subjects,with no changes observed in RPE.