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Writer's pictureAlaina Devenney-Copico

Unleash Your Peak Performance: How Cordyceps Became the Ultimate Athlete's Super Mushroom


1993 Olympics, Chinese Olympics female running team




Breakthrough in the Sports World:


Cordyceps came into the spotlight in the 1993 Olympics. The Chinese women’s Olympic running team broke numerous world records then. After a lot of speculation and inquiry as to what helped them succeed phenomenally, it was eventually revealed by their coach that a special elixir was the secret to their unbeatable performance. This special elixirs was Cordyceps! This made the mushroom famous instantly and scientific research began thereafter to know more about them. The Chinese women’s team was even suspected and tested for any sort of steroids or any other banned substances but none was found.


This powerful mushroom helps athletes without tainting their reputation. In the Tianjin marathon, runners from China set a new world record by finishing the race under the 2:27 hour mark. Incredible! They destroyed half a dozen world records that had stood for years and won three gold medals at the world track and field championships in Stuttgart.


The most phenomenal performance was put in by Wang Junxia, who set four records in six days in September 1993. These Chinese women who established remarkable feet were trained with a strict diet of only vegetables, a special elixir, and rigorous workouts.

The elixir taken by them increased their stamina which was needed during the workout and the main ingredient of this elixir was none other than Cordyceps.


Following these events, there was a surge in scientific interest to study Cordyceps and its potential effects on physical performance. Early studies suggested that Cordyceps might improve oxygen utilization, energy production (ATP), and endurance, which are critical factors in athletic performance.


Here's why they're particularly popular among athletes:


1. Enhancing Energy Production:
  • ATP Production: Cordyceps is believed to enhance the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is crucial for energy transfer in cells. This could lead to increased energy levels, making it easier to engage in physical activities.

  • Improved Oxygen Utilization: Some studies suggest that Cordyceps can improve the way the body uses oxygen, which is particularly beneficial during exercise, potentially leading to improved endurance and stamina.


2. Reducing Fatigue:
  • Anti-Fatigue Properties: Cordyceps contains specific bioactive compounds that might help combat fatigue. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals looking to increase their activity levels but who often feel tired or sluggish.

  • Studies on Exercise Performance: Research, including some human trials, has shown that Cordyceps can improve measures of exercise performance, particularly in older adults, which might be due to its effects on reducing fatigue and improving energy metabolism​​.


3. Supporting Respiratory Function:
  • Lung Health: Cordyceps has been traditionally used to support lung health. Improved respiratory function can enhance oxygen intake, vital for physical activity and overall energy levels.

  • Potential Benefits for Respiratory Conditions: While more research is needed, some studies suggest Cordyceps could aid in managing conditions like asthma, which could help individuals breathe easier during activity​​.


4. General Wellness and Vitality:
  • Immune System Support: Cordyceps is known for its potential immune-modulating properties, contributing to overall health and well-being, making individuals more capable of engaging in regular physical activity.

  • Adaptogenic Properties: As an adaptogen, Cordyceps can help the body manage stress, potentially reducing the physical and psychological barriers to activity.




Can Cordyceps Be Consumed as a Pre-Workout?

Absolutely. Many athletes use Cordyceps to get the most out of their workouts. In fact, many athletes find that Cordyceps before a workout provides them with the boost they need to work out longer and return to the gym more often.


What Does Cordyceps Do for You Pre-Workout?

While there have not been a lot of studies done, Cordyceps may help support ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production which helps supply the muscles with energy.  A higher level of ATP may help support your athletic performance.


When Should You Take Cordyceps Before Your Workout?

Cordyceps can be taken any time of the day except evening (it may interfere with getting those Zzz’s).  Its support will last through the day and may support athletic performance by supporting the production of ATP. By taking your Cordyceps tincture a couple of hours before your workout, the body will be able to process it so that you may have higher ATP levels when you work out.


Whether you are going for a walk, live at higher altitude, hiking, swimming, spinning, weightlifting, anything that takes energy and endurance, cordyceps could be your new best friend.


While there is growing interest and some promising research, it's important to note that scientific studies on Cordyceps' effects on athletic performance are still emerging. Some studies have shown positive results, but more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand their impact.


Cordyceps are generally considered safe for most people, but as with any supplement, it's important to take them in appropriate doses. Athletes should consult with healthcare professionals or a sports nutritionist to determine the right dosage and ensure that the supplement does not interfere with other medications or health conditions.


Disclaimer: Cordyceps can be a valuable supplement for individuals looking to increase their activity levels. Its potential benefits in energy production, fatigue reduction, respiratory health, and overall vitality make it an attractive option. However, as with any supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting, especially for individuals with preexisting health conditions or those taking other medications. Additionally, while Cordyceps can aid in increasing activity levels, it should be part of a broader lifestyle approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest.




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