Athletes and fitness enthusiasts constantly seek holistic and natural solutions to improve their performance, strength, endurance, and recovery. Among the various botanical/herbal supplements available, Ashwagandha root extract is the most reliable and clinically proven adaptogen, known to improve physical and mental resilience. Ashwagandha is a revered Ayurvedic herb that has long been used to increase ‘bala’, or strength.
Among the various forms of Ashwagandha available on the market, KSM-66 Ashwagandha is rooted in science and stands out as the most clinically researched form of Ashwagandha root extract, providing several benefits to those focused on active lifestyle and sports nutrition. KSM-66 Ashwagandha is at the forefront of research, with over 32 clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals for a variety of therapeutic benefits.
A study published in F1000 Research (2024), demonstrated that KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract supplementation (600mg/day), resulted in a significant increase in muscle strength in both men and women enrolled in an 8-week resistance training program. Results showed an improvement in bench press strength—23.5% for men and 22.8% for women. Additionally, VO2 max, a critical marker of cardiovascular endurance, improved by 9.5% in men and 7.15% in women, thus highlighting KSM-66’s ability to boost both strength and endurance in training.
Another study, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2015), demonstrated that an 8-week supplementation with KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract (600 mg/day) significantly improved muscle strength and size in men. The study reported more than 75% increase in upper body strength and more than 50% improvement in lower body strength. Additionally, there was an increase in testosterone levels by more than 15%.
A study published in the International Journal of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Research (2023) demonstrated that KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract supplementation (600mg/day) for 8 weeks led to a 7.19% reduction in serum creatinine phosphokinase, a key marker of muscle damage. Thus indicating faster recovery and reduced muscle soreness.
Additionally, KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract improves cardiorespiratory endurance. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2021) found KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract (600mg/day) administration for 8 weeks resulted in a 16.4% rise in VO2 max (maximal oxygen consumption), indicating improved cardiorespiratory endurance. Similar results were observed in an earlier study published in Ayu (2015).
As a powerful adaptogen, KSM-66 Ashwagandha can also help athletes manage stress and anxiety, which can have a substantial impact on performance. According to research published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2017), KSM-6 Ashwagandha intake reduced cortisol levels by 22.2%, the body’s primary stress hormone. This reduction not only helps manage stress but also helps reduce stress-related food cravings and enhances body weight management.
KSM-66 Ashwagandha is also recognized for its nootropic properties. Athletes are increasingly looking for supplements that not only boost physical performance, but also improve focus, cognitive function, and mental resilience. A study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements (2017) discovered that KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract administration (600mg/day) significantly improved attention, memory, and overall cognitive function, allowing athletes to keep their mental sharpness during training and competition.
Thus KSM-66 Ashwagandha is an excellent choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for a natural, clinically proven solution to improve performance.