Menu
Learn
Functional Foods
- Mushroom Supplements- Mushroom Coffee- Health Benefits- Mushroom RecipesGrowing Mushrooms
- New? Start here!- Mushroom Growing: Help For CustomersNews & Media
- NewsLooking for an edge for improving your athletic performance? Cordyceps mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, but in recent years they’ve gained recognition among athletes for potentially enhancing physical performance. Known for their energy-boosting, endurance-enhancing, and recovery-supporting properties, cordyceps are now a popular natural supplement for performance-conscious individuals.
One of the most researched benefits of cordyceps is their ability to improve aerobic capacity, or VO₂ max, which is a measure of how efficiently the body uses oxygen during exercise. A 2016 study published in PubMed Central found that supplementation with Cordyceps militaris significantly improved high-intensity exercise tolerance in healthy adults. This means users could perform longer with less fatigue—an important edge for endurance athletes like runners, cyclists, and swimmers.
Cordyceps help your body take in more oxygen and deliver it more efficiently to working muscles. This is particularly helpful in cardiovascular and aerobic sports, where oxygen demands are high.
Cordyceps are also believed to increase levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the molecule your cells use for energy. More ATP means muscles have more energy available during exercise. In theory, this could lead to better performance during both endurance efforts and short bursts of high-intensity activity.
ATP production directly correlates with energy availability, helping delay muscle exhaustion and improve training capacity.
Another benefit attributed to cordyceps is their ability to support heart and blood vessel health. Better circulation means nutrients and oxygen are delivered more quickly to muscle tissue, improving both performance and post-exercise recovery.
Some studies suggest that cordyceps may help regulate blood pressure and increase nitric oxide production, which dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow.
Cordyceps are classified as adaptogens, which means they help the body manage physical and mental stress. This is especially beneficial for athletes who train multiple times per week or compete regularly.
By influencing the body’s stress hormone (like cortisol) response, cordyceps may help reduce fatigue, support the immune system, and promote faster post-workout recovery.
While many athletes report improved energy and endurance, it’s important to note that scientific findings are mixed. Some studies demonstrate meaningful improvements in performance metrics, while others show little change.
The variation often depends on the form of cordyceps (like Cordyceps militaris vs. Cordyceps sinensis), the dosage, and the duration of supplementation. Most benefits are observed with consistent use over several weeks.
Cordyceps are generally considered safe for healthy adults. However, quality matters—some lower-cost products may contain fillers or contaminants. Choose a reputable brand that conducts third-party testing, and as with any supplement, consult a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen.
Cordyceps mushrooms offer a promising natural option for athletes looking to improve their performance, especially through enhanced oxygen use, energy production, and stress management. While they aren’t a substitute for proper training and nutrition, they can be a supportive addition to an overall wellness strategy.
Here is a list of credible sources with URLs on how cordyceps may help with athletic performance:
