As more athletes and cyclists look for ways to maintain performance, improve recovery, and support long-term health, NMN supplements are gaining attention. Short for Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, NMN is a compound that supports cellular energy production and healthy aging. But does it make a difference for cyclists?
Here’s what science and real-world application suggests about NMN for bike riders.
What Is NMN?
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a precursor to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), a vital coenzyme found in every cell of the body. NAD+ plays a key role in energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and cellular resilience.
As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline. Reduced NAD+ is linked to slower metabolism, decreased muscle function, and poorer recovery—all issues relevant to endurance athletes like cyclists.
Supplementing with NMN helps restore NAD+ levels. This is where cyclists may benefit.
Boosts Cellular Energy and Endurance
Cycling is a high-demand sport that relies heavily on mitochondrial efficiency. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, and their performance depends on adequate NAD+ levels.
NMN has been shown in multiple animal studies to enhance mitochondrial function, increase ATP production (the body’s energy currency), and improve endurance. For cyclists, this could translate into better stamina on long rides, reduced fatigue, and a more sustained power output.
A 2019 study in Cell Metabolism found that NMN supplementation improved aerobic capacity and increased muscle insulin sensitivity in older men. While more human data is needed, these findings are promising for endurance athletes!
Improves Muscle Recovery
Intense cycling causes micro-damage to muscle fibres. Recovery is critical—not only for performance gains but to avoid overtraining.
NAD+ is involved in activating sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial repair. By raising NAD+ levels, NMN may support faster muscle recovery and reduce downtime between training sessions.
A study in Nature Communications (2016) showed that NMN supplementation in aged mice reduced markers of inflammation and improved muscle regeneration post-exercise. These mechanisms are highly relevant to cyclists who train frequently.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular efficiency is crucial in cycling. NMN has been linked to improved vascular function, including enhanced blood flow and reduced arterial stiffness.
A 2020 clinical trial published in Science reported that NMN supplementation improved endothelial function in healthy adults. Improved circulation means better oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise, potentially enhancing aerobic capacity.
This is particularly important for endurance cyclists, where the body’s ability to efficiently transport oxygen can be the difference between a good ride and hitting the wall.
Slows Age-Related Decline in Performance
For older cyclists, maintaining peak performance becomes harder with each passing year. Declines in VO2 max, recovery speed, and metabolic flexibility all make longer rides more taxing.
Research suggests NMN may slow these age-related declines by restoring youthful levels of NAD+ and supporting healthy gene expression. Studies in aging rodents have shown improved muscle strength, metabolism, and endurance with NMN supplementation. While, of course, not a miracle pill, NMN may help extend the athletic lifespan for dedicated cyclists.
Is NMN Worth It for Cyclists?
NMN isn’t a performance enhancer in the traditional sense—it doesn’t act like caffeine or creatine. But it does work at the cellular level to support energy metabolism, recovery, and healthy aging. For serious cyclists, especially those over 30, NMN may offer a subtle but meaningful edge in both training and recovery.
As always, cyclists should consult a healthcare provider before adding any supplement, especially if managing existing conditions or medications.
