GNC, the leading global specialty retailer of nutritional products, announced today clinical results for the first and only nitric oxide product, Amplified Maxertion N.O., proven to demonstrate a delay in the onset of neuromuscular fatigue. The key findings were unveiled at the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) conference in Las Vegas, NV.

GNC's Amplified Maxertion N.O.(TM) was shown to increase power output at the onset of neuromuscular fatigue by an average of 20% and improve physical performance by helping athletes push past their normal point of exhaustion. This product is designed to increase nitric oxide levels in the body causing a hemodilation effect which expands blood vessels, allowing more blood, oxygen and nutrients to flow to muscles.

"This is truly groundbreaking research that has resulted in the delivery of a truly novel and clinically-validated product to the industry," said Guru Ramanathan, SVP Technology and Product Innovation for GNC. "Using advanced technology and ingredients, this is the first Nitric Oxide enhancing product to demonstrate significant athletic performance effects that are relevant and meaningful to all types of athletes."

The purpose of the double-blind placebo-controlled study was to examine the effects of daily administration of arginine-based supplements on the physical working capacity at the fatigue threshold (PWC(FT)). The PWC(FT) test estimates the highest power output that can be maintained without neuromuscular evidence of fatigue.

Using a cycle ergometer (stationary bicycle), all subjects performed an incremental test to exhaustion prior to supplementation and after four weeks of supplementation. Key study findings demonstrate significant mean increases in PWC(FT) for the 1.5 gm (22.4%) and 3.0 gm (18.8%) supplement groups, but no change for the placebo group (-1.6%).

The study followed 50 college-aged males over the course of four weeks who were randomized into one of three groups - a. placebo (microcrystalline cellulose), b. 1.5 gm of micronized arginine and 300 mg of grape seed extract, and c. 3.0 gm of micronized arginine and 300 mg of grape seed extract.

Amplified Maxertion N.O. is part of a comprehensive line of eight new advanced muscle performance and sports nutrition products from GNC. The entire Pro Performance(R) AMP line was developed through rigorous clinical research and is designed to suit the needs of a wide range of dedicated athletes, from the weekend warrior to the ultra competitive athlete.

About GNC

GNC, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., is the largest global specialty retailer of nutritional products including vitamin, mineral, herbal and other specialty supplements and sports nutrition, diet and energy products. As of March 31, 2009, GNC has more than 5,200 retail locations throughout the United States (including 944 franchise and 1,733 Rite Aid store-within-a-store locations) and franchise operations in 44 international markets. The company -- which is dedicated to helping consumers Live Well -- also offers products and product information online at www.gnc.com.