Effect of Cordyceps Sinensis on repeated-sprint performance following repeated-sprint training in hypoxia in female soccer players

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the combined effects of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs) supplementation during 4 weeks of repeated-sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) on physical performance and hematological responses of female soccer players. A total of 39 female soccer players were randomly divided into four groups: hypoxic repeated sprints [RSH (FiO2 14.5%) with Cs (RSH-Cs, n = 11) or placebo (RSH-P, n = 11)], and normoxic repeated sprints [RSN (FiO2 20.9%) with Cs (RSN-Cs, n = 8) or placebo (RSN-P, n = 9)]. All participants were instructed to consume 3 g of Cs or placebo daily while completing 12 RS sessions of repeated sprints training (RSH or RSN) over the 4 weeks. Performance and blood tests were measured at baseline and following the 4 weeks. Incremental exercise and repeated sprint ability tests were performed at sea level. The results showed the main effect of the supplement, regardless of the condition, on time to exhaustion (p = 0.04), peak power (p = 0.04), and fatigue index (p = 0.03) was higher in the Cs groups than in the placebo groups; however, no significant change in VO2max was observed. There were significant improvements on peak power, mean power, fatigue index, and blood lactate, compared with baseline in RSH-Cs (all p < 0.05); but even so, RSN-Cs significantly improved both mean power and blood lactate (all p < 0.05). Interestingly, only mean power was significant in both the main effect of the supplement and condition, with a greater improvement in RSH-Cs than its respective control. However, these improvements were not associated with hematological variables (all p > 0.05). The current findings indicate the potential of Cs to help in maintaining tolerance under hypoxia, which increases aerobic and anaerobic performance.