As mentioned above in the introduction ATP is a key component of physical endurance and performance. It is required for energy-requiring processes such as exercise.

ATP used by cells is derived from energy sources of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Fat metabolism is a sustainable source of energy to meet demands and preserve the ‘limited’ carbohydrate sources.

Coordinated neural, hormonal and circulatory events occur during exercise, which facilitate the delivery of fatty acids from adipose tissue to the working muscle for oxidation. When exercise intensity increases this oxidation declines and is unable to supply ATP at the rate it needs for that given exercise work rate [8].

Cordyceps has been shown to increase ATP production by as much as 55%. With increased synthesis of ATP this results in the body being able to provide more energy for exercising [4]. During exercise the majority of ATP consumption is the sum of ATP consumption during cross-bridge cycling - muscle contractions.

Studies have shown that nitric oxide slows this cross-bridge cycling which may explain the decrease in ATP turnover following the consumption of beetroot extract. Beetroot extract may also lower the oxygen cost through means of a more efficient ATP production combined with lower ATP consumption [9].

Rhodiola rosea extract provides the ability to improve physical work capacity and endurance. Potentially it’s ability to activate the creation of ATP in the muscles contributes to its affect to increase the time to exhaustion and increase the bodies resistance to stress [10].

Black ginger extract has been shown to help decrease oxidative stress and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The anti oxidative benefits can enhance the bodies capabilities to neutralise oxidative stress, which can help ATP production and lead to a higher VO2 max [6]