Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a single dose of citrulline malate supplementation on ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), delayed onset muscle soreness

(DOMS), and physical performance (anaerobic, maximal, and minimal power) in active women following a session of high-intensity exercise.



Methods: Twenty active women were randomly assigned to two groups: a supplement group (8g

citrulline malate) and a placebo group (8g

maltodextrin). Following a high-intensity exercise session and the execution of the 6-stage REST protocol, participants received their respective supplements. RPE, DOMS, anaerobic power, and maximal/minimal power were measured 45 minutes post-supplementation. Data were analyzed using independent and paired t-tests.



Results: The results indicated that citrulline malate supplementation significantly improved all measured parameters. Compared to the placebo group, the supplement group exhibited significantly higher in anaerobic power, maximal/minimal power, and significantly lower perceived fatigue and muscle soreness(P < 0.05).

Conclusion: A single dose of citrulline malate supplementation can enhance anaerobic, maximal, and minimal power performance while mitigating perceived exertion and muscle soreness in active women following high-intensity exercise.