Efeitos da cafeína sobre parâmetros físicos e comportamentais de atletas: força, elasticidade, impulsividade e forças de caráter.

Abstract

Caffeine is widely used in sports settings due to its ergogenic effects on physical performance and cognition. However, its influence on socioemotional abilities remains underexplored. This study aimed to analyze the effects of acute caffeine ingestion on psychomotor variables (strength and flexibility), impulsivity, and character strengths in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Karate athletes. The sample included 19 male athletes (mean age 32.2 ± 12.1 years), randomly assigned to three experimental groups: Placebo (0 mg), CAF250 (250 mg), and CAF450 (450 mg). Participants completed the Character Strengths Scale and the Go/No-Go test, in addition to undergoing physical assessments of thoracolumbar flexibility, scapular strength, and lumbar strength. One-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences among the groups in psychomotor variables or impulsivity. However, a statistically significant effect was found for the character strength variable social intelligence. Specifically, the group receiving 450 mg of caffeine presented significantly lower scores compared to both the Placebo and CAF250 groups. These findings suggest that high doses of caffeine may negatively affect social abilities, even in the absence of changes in physical performance or inhibitory control. Coaches and athletes should be aware of potential socioemotional side effects of caffeine supplementation, particularly in combat sports that demand rapid decision-making and strategic interpersonal interaction.