What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is an herbal supplement that has been used for centuries for its mood-boosting capabilities. Ashwagandha gained its popularity as a stress reducing adaptogen, but researchers are discovering many other benefits of ashwagandha supplementation. This is now a popular extract in the fitness community because of its ability to boost cardio endurance, reduce soreness, and increase strength.
How Ashwagandha Improves Cardiorespiratory Health
Ashwagandha supplementation increases VO2 max which is the amount of oxygen an athlete can consume. With VO2 max increased, athletes are able to participate longer in cardiovascular exercise. This is a huge benefit for runners, swimmers, cyclists, and other endurance athletes. Weightlifters also benefit from VO2 max because it increases the number and size of the cell’s mitochondria. This cell center is responsible for nutrient absorption, nutrient delivery, and cellular energy. This increase in mitochondrial performance allows for increased strength and muscle size.
Have you noticed a new ingredient called KSM-66 being added to exercise enhancing products? KSM-66 is a highly concentrated form of ashwagandha added for its performance enhancing properties. This extract can be stacked with several other supplements to further increase its benefits which is why it is becoming a go-to addition to popular workout supplements from companies like GNC and Cellucor.
Additional Athletic Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha increases motivation, reduces stress, and promotes a positive sense of well-being. Everyone can use a boost in motivation when it comes to getting up and going to the gym after a long day at work. This extract also acts as an anti-inflammatory so soreness felt after intense exercise will be reduced and it will take longer to become fatigued.
How to Take Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha can be taken pre workout to gain an edge over the competition or taken daily for a mood boost. The recommended dosage is 500mg and can be taken up to three times daily. If taken correctly, ashwagandha causes little to no negative side effects.
Try It
If you are looking for an extra push to get through high-intensity exercise, consider adding some ashwagandha into your pre workout mix for a performance and motivation boost. Ashwagandha is pretty easy to find and is fairly cheap. You can find it in bulk powder, capsules, and in premixed workout supplements.