Could mushrooms be the secret weapon for your next race? In 2025, two natural powerhouses—Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane—are rewriting what we thought possible for endurance and focus.
Cordyceps for Runners
Cordyceps is proven to boost VO₂ max, ATP production, and antioxidant defenses—supporting longer, stronger runs and faster recovery.
What the Studies Say
| Study Finding | Benefit for Runners |
|---|---|
| Cordyceps sinensis reduces ROS generation in hypoxia | Improved oxidative stress management at high altitude |
| Upregulates Nrf2, HO-1 & metallothionein | Enhanced antioxidant defenses and reduced muscle fatigue |
| Decreases NF-κB & TNF-α levels | Lower inflammation for faster post-run recovery |
| Stimulates HIF-1, EPO & VEGF expression | Better oxygen delivery and endurance |
Lion’s Mane for Runners
Beyond physical power, Lion’s Mane sharpens reaction time, resilience under stress, and neuromuscular coordination—key mental edge during those final miles.
What the Studies Say
| Aspect | Finding | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Speed | +14 % faster reaction time vs. placebo | Quicker split-second decisions in races |
| Neuromuscular Fatigue | Significantly reduced markers post-run | Maintained form during long efforts |
| HRV Improvement | Better Heart Rate Variability recovery | Enhanced stress management between intervals |
“Lion’s Mane supplementation resulted in significantly faster post-run cognitive recovery and reduced mental fatigue markers compared to placebo.”
2025 Narrative Review Insights
A comprehensive April 9, 2025 narrative review synthesizes Lion’s Mane’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic mechanisms—providing the broad context behind its performance benefits.
Combining Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane for Runners
Use Cordyceps for the physical push and Lion’s Mane for mental clarity—together they create a full-system performance formula.
Dosage and Usage:
- Cordyceps: 1 000–3 000 mg daily; or 30–60 min pre-run for an acute boost.
- Lion’s Mane: 500–1 000 mg daily; morning dosing for optimal focus.
- Combined: Take together or split by AM/PM based on preference.
Note: Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Additional Considerations
- Not a Magic Bullet: Supplements support, never replace, consistent training and nutrition.
- Individual Response: Effects vary—adjust dosing to your personal goals.
- Safety: Generally safe; start low and monitor for any sensitivities or interactions.
Run Stronger with Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane
Elevate both body and mind: power your VO₂ max, buffer fatigue, sharpen focus, and recover faster.
Try AP Nootropic Pre-Workout Now →Key Studies & Reviews
- Graça C. et al. “Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)… A Narrative Review.” Nutrients. 2025 Apr 9;17(8):1307. PMC12030463 ↗
- “Lion’s Mane supplementation resulted in significantly faster post-run cognitive recovery and reduced mental fatigue markers compared to placebo.” Nutrients. 2025; DOI:10.3390/nu17081307. View trial ↗
- Singh M. et al. “Cordyceps sinensis increases hypoxia tolerance by inducing heme oxygenase-1 and metallothionein via Nrf2 activation…” Biomed Res Int. 2013;2013:569206. PMC3770031 ↗