University researchers in Sydney, Australia undertaking a systematic review, have found preliminary evidence for the usefulness of acupuncture to enhance exercise performance and post-workout recovery. They looked at four trials, of which three set out to determine the effect of acupuncture on exercise performance. One of these trials found significant enhancements in peak power output and blood pressure compared to controls. Two trials could find no effect on performance. The fourth trial evaluated the effect of acupuncture on post-exercise recovery, and found that heart rate, oxygen consumption and blood lactate were significantly lowered following acupuncture, compared with controls.
The authors recommend more high-quality studies, as there are limitations within existing literature.
(Effect of Acute Acupuncture Treatment on Exercise Performance and Postexercise Recovery: A Systematic Review. Journal of Altern & Complementary Medicine, 14 January 2013.)
Researchers in Greece have shown that acupuncture can make a significant contribution to the treatment of heel pain in patients with plantar fasciitis. Thirty-eight male patients were randomly allocated among two groups: the first received ice, anti-inflammatory drugs, and a stretching and strengthening programme; the second received all of the foregoing, plus acupuncture. After two months, pain levels, mobility and function were all significantly better in the acupuncture group compared to the first group. The authors conclude that acupuncture should be considered a major therapeutic instrument, used alongside standard care, in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. 
Researchers in Taiwan have found that acupuncture can reduce blood lactic acid and enhance recovery from muscle fatigue after exercise. 
In a prospective study of acupuncture and athletic performance, twenty male cyclists aged 18 to 30, rode a stationary bike three times a week for 20 km as fast as possible. Before each ride, they were given either acupuncture, sham acupuncture as a control, or no intervention, once each and in a random order.