A comprehensive review of the physiology and evidence base to guide the use of ergogenic and medical supplements for enhanced cycling performance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A growing body of evidence supports the use of supplements to enhance cycling performance through both direct and indirect mechanisms.

Methods

This review was informed by a structured literature search conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies published up to May 2025. Studies were included if they involved human participants, were published in English and evaluated outcomes related to endurance performance, recovery or physiological function.

Results

Direct enhancement with ergogenic supplements is primarily achieved via modulation of skeletal muscle energy metabolism. During exercise, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) resynthesis is driven by the phosphagen system, glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation and beta-oxidation, with ea

SUBMITTER: Rowland A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12912213 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature