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Why is everyone going bonkers over beetroot shots? The benefits of nitrates for sports performance

Can glugging down shots of beetroot juice really help to improve your performance? We take a look at what it is about the bright purple stuff that could enhance your training and racing. Plus look at alternatives that don't come with a side of foul taste.

By Jenny Lucas-Hill

Content Director

Last updated -

16 Jul 2025

Chugging a shot of bright purple beetroot juice might not be many people’s pre-training breakfast of choice. In fact, it sounds more like something you’d have to do as a forfeit, than something you’d ...

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Written by

Jenny Lucas-Hill

Jenny Lucas-Hill is Content Director at TRI247. A five-time Ironman finisher, she's also a qualified personal trainer and sports massage therapist.

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Why is everyone going bonkers over beetroot shots? The benefits of nitrates for sports performance

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