Applying Cordyceps sinensis to Boost Endurance Performance in Long-Distance Runners

Authors: Siraphatthra Thongsawang, Tharanus Krataithong, Sukanya ChorCharoenying, Phawit Norchai, Nattiporn Nokkaew

Journal: Journal of Exercise Physiology Online

Study Design: Randomized, repeated measures, counterbalanced, single-blind study

Participants: 12 male long-distance runners

Intervention:

• Cordyceps sinensis (CS)
• Sodium bicarbonate (SB)
• Placebo (ST)

The interventions were administered for 2 weeks each, with a 1-week washout period between them.

Outcome Measures:

• Time to exhaustion (TTE)
• Ventilatory threshold 1 and 2 (VT1 and VT2)
• VO2 max

Summary: The study aimed to investigate the effects of Cordyceps sinensis supplementation on fatigue in endurance athletes. The results showed that Cordyceps sinensis significantly improved time to exhaustion (TTE), ventilatory threshold 2 (VT2), and VO2 max compared to the placebo. These improvements were comparable to those observed with sodium bicarbonate. The study suggests that Cordyceps sinensis may be a beneficial supplement for enhancing endurance performance in long-distance runners.