The Effect of Coffee Consumption on VO2max and Heart Rate in Sports Science Students at Yogyakarta State University

Abstract

Background

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide and is known for its caffeine content, which has been recognized as a legal ergogenic aid capable of influencing physical performance and cardiovascular responses. Although numerous studies have examined caffeine supplementation, limited evidence exists regarding the effects of coffee consumption as a natural caffeine source on aerobic capacity and heart rate responses, particularly in physically active populations.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the effects of coffee consumption on maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) and heart rate responses during and after aerobic exercise among sports science students.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study with a repeated-measures design was conducted involving 25 physically active sports science students. Participants completed two conditions: a control condition without coffee consumption and an experimental condition with coffee consumption, separated by a 48-hour washout period. VO₂max was estimated using the Multistage Fitness Test, while heart rate was measured at rest, immediately after exercise, and during recovery. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results

The results showed a significant increase in VO₂max following coffee consumption compared with the control condition (p < 0.001). Coffee intake also resulted in significantly higher resting and post-exercise heart rate values (p < 0.001). Furthermore, heart rate recovery at 10 and 15 minutes post-exercise was significantly faster in the coffee condition compared with the non-coffee condition (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Coffee consumption significantly improves aerobic capacity and modulates cardiovascular responses during and after exercise. These findings indicate that coffee, as a natural source of caffeine, may serve as an effective ergogenic aid for enhancing aerobic performance and cardiovascular recovery in physically active individuals.