Cordyceps and Performance: The Secret Weapon for Endurance, Energy & VO₂ Max

With the London Marathon just around the corner, it’s time to think seriously about your performance game. Whether you're gearing up for race day or simply pushing for that next personal best in the gym, there’s one natural supplement that athletes and trainers are turning to more than ever: Cordyceps.

Dubbed the "performance mushroom," Cordyceps has gained serious traction for its ability to boost energy, endurance, and oxygen efficiency. But what makes it so powerful?

What Is Cordyceps?

Cordyceps is a type of medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine. Revered for centuries for its rejuvenating effects, modern science now backs what ancient cultures long understood: Cordyceps can enhance the body's energy production, stamina, and athletic performance.

Today, high-quality Cordyceps (like the one we use at DIRTEA) is cultivated sustainably without the need for caterpillars (yes, really!). Instead, it’s grown on vegan substrates, making it clean, potent, and accessible to everyone.

At DIRTEA, we’re always exploring the science behind nature’s most powerful ingredients – so when it comes to energy, endurance, and performance, Cordyceps stands out. That’s why we’ve included it in our functional mushroom range, offering Cordyceps as a Pure Powder and as easy-to-take Cordyceps Gummies to help you perform at your peak, naturally.

The Science Behind Cordyceps and Performance

Cordyceps isn’t just hype. Multiple studies have demonstrated its positive impact on:

Enhanced Oxygen Uptake & Stamina

Cordyceps can improve VO₂ max – the body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently – which is critical for endurance athletes and those looking to push harder for longer. Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that daily Cordyceps supplementation improved exercise performance in healthy adults.

This clinical trial also highlighted significant improvements in oxygen uptake and aerobic capacity among participants taking Cordyceps.

Natural ATP Production for Energy

Cordyceps has been shown to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy molecule. This helps deliver energy to muscles more efficiently, particularly during high-intensity workouts.

A study in Phytotherapy Research found that Cordyceps may help reduce fatigue and improve overall physical endurance by supporting mitochondrial function and ATP generation.

Recovery & Immune Support

Beyond performance, Cordyceps supports post-exercise recovery. Rich in beta-glucans and antioxidants, it helps combat oxidative stress – the damage caused by intense training. Research from Frontiers in Pharmacology highlights Cordyceps’ potential in immune modulation and reducing inflammation, which are key to muscle repair and long-term health.

Real Athletes, Real Results

You don’t have to be an elite runner to feel the benefits. Thousands of DIRTEA customers have experienced game-changing results from adding Cordyceps to their routine:

“Works like magic for working out. Around 30% extra power for sure! :) Highly recommended!" – Tamas B.

“I mix a heaped teaspoon with water 30mins before a workout and it works wonders. Not only does it help with my training, it keeps me going for the rest of the day." – Jenny T.

“Cordyceps powder has definitely improved my strength and fitness considerably. Can't recommend it enough." – Michael P.

“Absolute game changer. I add Cordyceps to my coffee before a run and the difference is astounding. I just keep running and don’t get tired!" – Robert H.

“Since taking it, I’m definitely more energised and not at all tired when I hit the gym later in the day – which used to be a big problem for me." – Jazz D.

“The first time I tried it, I genuinely felt like Bradley Cooper in Limitless! It helped me access my thoughts and flow during the day – something just clicked." – Louisa B.

“I use cordyceps mushroom before the gym and it’s really amazing! It makes my performance double" – Gurkan A.

How to Take Cordyceps for Best Results

When to take it: For performance, we recommend taking 1 teaspoon of Cordyceps powder 30 minutes before training or your morning routine.

How to take it: Mix with warm water, your smoothie, pre-workout shake, or stir it into your coffee. It has a naturally earthy taste, and blends well.

How often: You can take Cordyceps daily for best results. Many customers report a cumulative effect after consistent use.

Want it even easier? Try our Cordyceps Gummies – perfect for on-the-go performance support.

Whether You're Training for the Marathon or Just Training for Life...

Cordyceps is one of the most powerful natural tools to support your stamina, energy, oxygen flow, and focus. And it’s not just for elite runners. From cyclists to gym goers to busy parents trying to keep their energy up, Cordyceps can help you unlock a new level of performance.

Want to dive deeper into the benefits of Cordyceps? Read more in our journal.

Ready to feel the difference? Shop Cordyceps now.