Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) supplementation does not improve endurance exercise performance

Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2004 Apr;14(2):236-42. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.14.2.236.

Abstract

It is purported that supplementation with Cordyceps Sinensis (CordyMax Cs-4) will improve oxidative capacity and endurance performance. The intent of this investigation was to examine the effects of CordyMax Cs-4 supplementation on VO<(2peak,) ventilatory threshold, and endurance performance in endurance-trained cyclists. Twenty-two male cyclists participated in 5 weeks of supplementation with CordyMax Cs-4 tablets (3 g/d). Training intensity was maintained by weekly documentation and reporting throughout the 5-week period. Subjects completed a VO(2peak) test and work-based time trial prior to and following the supplementation period. VO(2peak) was similar within and between placebo (PLA) and treatment (CS) groups prior to (59.9 +/- 5.9 vs. 59.1 +/- 5.4 ml/kg/min, respectively) and following (60.1 +/- 5.5 vs. 57.1 +/- 5.8 ml/kg/min, respectively) the supplementation period. Ventilatory threshold (VT) was measured at 72 +/- 10% of VO(2peak) in P and T prior to supplementation and did not change in either group following the supplementation. PLA completed the time trial in 61.4+/- 2.4 min compared to 62.1+/- 4.0 min in T. Time trial measurements did not differ between groups, nor did they change in response to supplementation. It is concluded that 5 weeks of CordyMax Cs-4 supplementation has no effect on aerobic capacity or endurance exercise performance in endurance-trained male cyclists.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anaerobic Threshold / drug effects
  • Anaerobic Threshold / physiology
  • Bicycling / physiology*
  • Cordyceps / chemistry*
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Exercise Test
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Oxygen Consumption / drug effects
  • Oxygen Consumption / physiology
  • Physical Education and Training
  • Physical Endurance / drug effects*
  • Physical Endurance / physiology
  • Task Performance and Analysis