C or beta carotene either improves exercise performance or improves recovery of muscle following exercise. There is ongoing research into the influence of Vit. C on recovery and muscle soreness. C may exert a protective effect against eccentric muscle damage. Rokitzki et al.
Vitamins contribute as co-factors in energy production.
If athletes consume a varied, balanced diet, the adequate vitamin intake will be met. Carnitine Key dietary sources of carnitine are red meat and dairy produce. The body can also synthesise carnitine - thus, it is not a vitamin. Total carnitine in muscles consists of free-carnitine and that which is bound to fatty acids. While the ratio of free to bound carnitine changes during exercise, the total carnitine remains the same.