The present invention is directed to an ingestible athletic performance enhancement composition comprising l-menthol wherein the composition does not contain alcohol. The present invention further includes athletic performance enhancement compositions wherein the amount of l-menthol is between 0.01 to 0.5 weight percent of the composition. The invention also includes methods of improving athletic performance comprising the ingestion of a composition comprising l-menthol, wherein the amount of l-menthol is sufficient to induce a cooling sensation while maintaining palatability and minimizing side effects.