Ashwagandha with resistance training to boost strength and stress markers
Official title: The Impact of 12-week Ashwagandha Supplementation Induced by Resistance Training on Strength, Levels of Neurotrophic and Stress Response Proteins, Oxidative and Psychological Stress, and Cognitive Function in Physically Active Male Adults
Run by Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport · NCT07803068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This 12-week study tests whether taking ASHWAGANDHA along with regular resistance training helps healthy, trained men see improvements in strength, stress levels, sleep, and cognitive function compared with a placebo.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 25 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | Men only |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Gdansk, Pomeranian Voivodeship) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | March 2027 |
| Study ends | September 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07803068 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy, non-smoking men 25–40 with at least 6 months of resistance training experience and no use of Ashwagandha or adaptogenic supplements.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals who do not respond to Ashwagandha or who do not benefit from resistance training may see little to no additional benefit beyond placebo.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy, resistance-trained men aged 25–40. Participants will take either Ashwagandha or a placebo daily for 12 weeks while performing resistance training three times per week. Outcomes include muscle strength, sleep quality, cognitive function, and a range of hormonal, neurotrophic, and oxidative stress markers measured before and after the intervention. The goal is to see if Ashwagandha enhances exercise adaptations and overall well-being in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the intervention could support improved strength, stress resilience, sleep, and cognitive performance in physically active men.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies suggest potential benefits of Ashwagandha for stress and performance, but evidence is limited and methodologically varied in physically active individuals; this study adds rigorous design in a trained population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Minimum 6 months of consistent resistance training experience * Participation in at least two resistance training sessions per week * No use of Ashwagandha, adaptogenic supplements, or medications * No medical contraindications and signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * History of cardiovascular events, liver disorders, or psychiatric illness * Medical contraindications for participation * Use of nicotine products, including e-cigarettes * BMI \> 29.9, to ensure homogeneity in body composition
Where it's running
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Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport
Gdansk, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.