What is Creatine’s Role In Muscle Contraction?
To meet the demands of high-intesity exercise, such as weight lifting, muscles derive their energy from a series of reactions involving Adenosine Triphosphate(ATP), Phosphocreatine(PCr), Adenosine Diphosphate(ADP) and creatine. ATP provides energy when it releases a phosphate molecule and becomes ADP. ATP is regenerated when a PCr donates a phosphate molecule that combines with ADP. Stored PCr can fuel the first 15-20 mins of weight lifting, but another fuel source must provide the energy to sustain the activity. Creatine supplements increase the storage of PCr, thus making more ATP available to fuel the working muscles and enable them to be more resistant before becoming fatigued.
