Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen with several benefits for an endurance athlete.
- Boosts VO2 max
- Increases energy levels
- Reduces fatigue
American runner Andre Cason used it in 1990 to defeat the invincible, steroid-fueled Carl Lewis — quite a feat.
But what are the untold benefits of rhodiola rosea?
In this blog, we talk about rhodiola rosea and its benefits, especially boosting VO2 max levels. We also share a little history, just because we care.
Rhodiola rosea and VO2 max
Similarly to ashwagandha and cordyceps, rhodiola gradually increases VO2 max by improving stress response — this is the best strategy to achieve long-term progress in endurance sports.
What does stress have to do with VO2 max?
Rhodiola rosea boosts VO2 max by managing stress levels and increasing oxygen flow.
Prolonged exercise reduces blood glucose levels. In response, the body releases stress hormones, which increases stress levels.
This has several negative effects:
- vasoconstriction,
- high blood pressure,
- release of blood sugar,
- redistribution of blood flow,
- weakened immune system.
By managing stress, rhodiola rosea improves all body functions, but above all, it increases oxygen flow, which in turn leads to an increase of VO2 max.
And if you're serious about boosting your VO2 max, you need a structured training plan.
Adaptogens, such as ashwagandha, cordyceps, and rhodiola rosea, increase VO2 max by managing stress and improving oxygen flow.
Other benefits of rhodiola rosea
In addition to boosting VO2 max, rhodiola rosea has several other benefits for endurance athletes.
- Boosts energy levels
- Reduces fatigue
- Increases endurance
- Improves mental strength
- Increases wellbeing
- Antioxidant effect
Scientific studies confirm the benefits of rhodiola rosea, especially in terms of endurance sports where its use has been linked to increased endurance and better overall performance.
Adaptogen Fuse
Complete adaptogen mix
Absolute
VO2 max booster
Fusion
Fat burn, VO2 max
Rhodiola Complex
3% rosavins, 4% salidrosides
How to use rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea, similar to other adaptogens, must be consumed regularly. You might see the first results after a week, but we recommend a loading period of at least 4 weeks.
The dose we recommend is at least 200 mg of rhodiola rosea extract per day.
Keep in mind that adaptogens work differently when used together. To get the best results, check out our adaptogen use guide!
Regularly consume at least 200 mg of rhodiola rosea extract per day for 4 to 8 weeks to get best results.
Rhodiola rosea in dietary supplements
The cleanest way to intake rhodiola rosea is with a single rhodiola supplement.
Rhodiola Complex 4Endurance Pro provides 300 mg of rhodiola extract and a high number of active ingredients — 3% of rosavins and 4% of salidrosides.
High-quality source of rhodiola rosea.
You will also find this amazing adaptogen in several of our formulas!
- Absolute — the most potent VO2 max booster
- Fusion — burn fat and boost VO2 max
- Loaded — powerful multivitamin formula
- Adaptogen Fuse — adaptogen synergy at its best
Whatever rhodiola supplement you choose, it's important that it's obtained from a quality source and contains a sufficient amount of active ingredients.
Rhodiola rosea used in our products is always of the highest quality.
What is rhodiola rosea?
Rhodiola rosea is a perennial adaptogen plant with smooth and fleshy leaves 1 to 4 cm long.
It is extremely resistant to high altitudes, being able to grow at above 4000 meters.
The underground part of the plant is a thick root, which can weigh up to a few kilograms. If cut, it releases a scent that reminds us of roses.
Rhodiola rosea grows in the coldest parts of the world, such as Siberia and Scandinavia, but it can also be found in Central Europe.
Do you smell roses? It might be rhodiola rosea.
History of rhodiola rosea
It might have gone under the radar of sports nutrition for a very long time, but rhodiola rosea had been used by pretty much every major civilization that ever set foot in Europe — the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, Caucasian indigenous tribes, the Vikings.
Let me drink this rhodiola tea — then I'll send you to Valhalla!
In modern times, the Russians rediscovered the amazing benefits of rhodiola rosea. They were so impressed that they gave it to their athletes, soldiers, and even astronauts.
Later on, several studies supported the Russian enthusiasm for this incredible plant, but not before 2016.
Why only then?
Because in 2016, National Geographic published an article about rhodiola rosea and its numerous benefits. The article also mentioned Karl Meltzer, the best ultra-distance runner in history with several world records to his name and a huge proponent of rhodiola, which he uses for recovery, energy, and VO2 max.
You might have never heard of it, but rhodiola rosea's been around since the ancient times.
Conclusion
Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogen plant with several benefits for an athlete, such as increased energy levels, reduced stress, and improved VO2 max.
While it has been used throughout history by ancient civilizations, it has only recently made its way into sports nutrition.
You can find rhodiola rosea in single products, such as Rhodiola Complex 4Endurance Pro, but it also shines in advanced formulas, such as Absolute and Fusion.
If you're looking to improve your athletic performance in a natural way, give rhodiola rosea a try and unleash its (now told) benefits.