What primary outcome is associated with creatine supplementation?

Creatine supplementation is primarily associated with improved short-term power output, which is crucial for activities that require bursts of energy, such as weightlifting, sprinting, and high-intensity interval training. Creatine serves as a key energy substrate in muscle cells, facilitating the rapid regeneration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body's primary energy carrier. This enhancement in ATP availability allows athletes to perform at higher intensities and sustain power output during short-duration, high-intensity exercises.

While creatine may have some indirect benefits on overall exercise performance, particularly in endurance activities, its direct impact is primarily on anaerobic energy systems rather than aerobic capacity or long-distance running. Additionally, while fat reduction can be part of a comprehensive training and nutrition plan, creatine is not specifically effective for weight loss; its primary role centers around performance enhancement in short-duration, high-intensity efforts.