Ashwagandha in Sports: Investigating Its Impact on Physical Performance and Athletic Enhancement
Date
2-15-2024
Faculty Mentor
Majid Koozehchian, Kinesiology; Gina Mabrey, Kinesiology
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Submission Type
Conference Proceeding
Location
9:15-9:25am | Houston Cole Library, 11th Floor
Description
The herb Ashwagandha, recognized for its adaptogenic properties and stress-mitigating capabilities, has garnered scientific interest for its prospective role in augmenting physical performance in healthy cohorts. This study presents a comprehensive meta-analysis of extant clinical trials to elucidate the potential ergogenic effects of Ashwagandha supplementation. A rigorous selection process yielded 13 studies that met predefined criteria, each examining the impact of Ashwagandha on various performance indices. Although one study was excluded from the quantitative synthesis, the combined analysis of the residual data demonstrated promising outcomes.
The integrity of the research was underscored by an overall low-to-moderate risk of bias across the included studies, lending credence to the findings. Employing advanced statistical techniques, the analysis scrutinized the efficacy of Ashwagandha in enhancing multiple dimensions of physical performance, including muscular strength, power output, cardiorespiratory endurance (VO2max), and fatigue recovery intervals. The comparative assessment against placebo groups indicated statistically significant improvements in these key performance parameters attributable to Ashwagandha supplementation.
In a novel approach to data stratification, participant cohorts were bifurcated based on gender and prior training experience, revealing that the benefits of Ashwagandha supplementation transcended these demographic and experiential divides, manifesting in both genders and across varying levels of athletic training.
Acknowledging the constraints inherent in empirical research, this study underscores the necessity for future investigative efforts. Subsequent research, particularly those integrating structured training programs and focusing on athletic populations, is imperative to corroborate the preliminary findings and refine the understanding of Ashwagandha's ergogenic potential.
While preliminary, the current findings are promising and suggest that Ashwagandha, in conjunction with a balanced lifestyle and tailored training regimen, could offer a natural adjunct in the quest for enhanced physical performance. This research represents the inception of a more detailed inquiry into the mechanistic underpinnings of Ashwagandha's influence, the optimization of dosage and regimen for maximal benefit, and the delineation of any attendant side effects.
This study paves the way for a comprehensive exploration into the full gamut of possibilities this ancient herb presents, heralding a new frontier in natural supplements and their role in sports science and physical conditioning.
Keywords
student research, kinesiology
Rights
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Disciplines
Rehabilitation and Therapy
Recommended Citation
Roy, Skylar, "Ashwagandha in Sports: Investigating Its Impact on Physical Performance and Athletic Enhancement" (2024). JSU Student Symposium 2024. 9.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/ce_jsustudentsymp_2024/9