With intensive training underway for the Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 9 June 2024, athletes need to retain optimum health before, during, and after The Ultimate Human Race. The good news is that athletes competing in South Africa’s biggest event on the running calendar can seek restoration from a truly South African source – Rooibos tea.

“Alongside the incredible taste, Laager Rooibos has significant health benefits that can support athletes who are preparing for this year’s Comrades Marathon, as well as through the post-race recovery period,” explained Candice Sessions, Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager. “The almost 86km race is incredibly tough on the body, and integrating Rooibos tea into the diet is a simple yet effective way to support runners’ health during this time.”

7 Benefits of Rooibos for Health of Athletes

1. Rooibos tea has a high concentration of magnesium and zinc. This helps in the production of testosterone which is important for the body's endurance and ability to recover.

2. Rooibos helps the body to absorb iron which improves the delivery of oxygen to the muscles. This is vital for endurance athletes.

3. Rooibos contains powerful antioxidants which fight inflammation and boost the body’s circulation. This helps heal damaged muscle tissue after the race.

4. Rooibos is a source of calcium, magnesium, and manganese, all of which are important for bone health.

5. Rooibos contains plant chemicals which calm the nervous and gastrointestinal systems. This can help athletes conquer those pre-race jitters.

6. The presence of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and zinc in Rooibos tea replenishes athletes' minerals and electrolytes for sustained performance.

7. Laager Rooibos tea is the only Rooibos teabag that comes with the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) Heart Mark, ensuring it supports heart health for athletes.

Source: The South African Rooibos Council (SARC).

“The great thing about Rooibos is that it can be enjoyed as a warm beverage or even in an iced tea with added ice and honey or fresh fruit, depending on what’s needed,” continued Sessions. “It’s also an affordable form of healthy hydration for runners from all backgrounds. Laager Rooibos would like to wish all 2024 Comrades Marathon competitors a happy and healthy race – we salute you for your commitment and are behind you every step of the way!”

Laager Rooibos has a range of Pure Rooibos and flavoured Rooibos teas. For healthy recipes, advice and tips, visit the Joekels website at www.joekels.co.za or @LaagerRooibosTea on Facebook and Instagram.