OBJECTIVES : Schizandra chinensis is well known for its efficacy at liver function reinforcement, relieving thirst and recovery from fatigue. In this study, we examined the effects of sports drink containing Schizandra chinensis on serum metabolic substrate, electrolyte, stress indicators, related-enzyme and exercise performance, rectal temperature, and heat shock proteinb70 (HSP70). METHODS : Elite long-distance runners (male, 21.3yrs, n=16) were selected and divided into two groups; an experimental group (EXP, n=8) and a control group (CON, n=8). A beverage containing Schizandra chinensis was supplemented 3 times per day to EXP for 4 weeks. Serum biochemical elements (glucose, lactate, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, creatinine, creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase, blood urea nitrogen, Na, K, Cl) were analyzed by auto blood analyzer. Exercise performance was measured by treadmill exercise test, HSP70 was detected by electrophoresis and Western blotting, and rectal temperature was measured by rectal temperature probe. RESULTS : Administration of the beverage increased significantly the rest level of blood Na, Cl and glucose and decreased significantly lactate dehydrogenase, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase. No difference was found in exercise performance, rectal temperature increment or HSP70 concentration between groups. CONCLUSIONS : Administration of a sports drink containing Schizandra chinensis altered blood glucose, lactate dehydrogenase, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, Na and Cl levels.