Pine bark could help with recovery
Struggling to stick with your fitness routine? Then we may have some good news; research shows that the bark from pine trees could help keep you on track.
The scientific study shows the extract is effective in reducing muscle soreness and cramping and also improving performance and endurance.
Published in a recent issue of The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness the clinical trial analysed 147 recreational athletes.
Divided into two groups, one group supplemented their diet with the pine bark extract, known as Pycnogenol and the other did not. Results of the eight week trial showed that those taking the supplement;
- Finished a two mile run two minutes faster than at the start of the trial
- Improved their endurance during a two minute push-up test by 25 per cent
- Increased a two minute sit-up challenge by 15 per cent
Researchers also tested 54 male triathletes and found participants improved their 100 minute triathlon by 10 minutes, over a four week course.
“This study provides evidence that daily supplementation of Pycnogenol offers a natural approach to help reduce post-workout muscular pain, increase levels of physical performance and get you training again sooner,” said Dr. Gianni Belcaro, lead researcher of the study.
“Pycnogenol, along with good training and proper nutrition, may help to significantly improve physical fitness and reduce oxidative stress and muscular pain in both those who exercise recreationally and triathletes.”
Throughout the trials participants were evaluated on their level of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a result of an imbalance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants, which can hinder the body’s ability to repair muscle damage. Pycnogenol worked to mop up the free radicals caused by the imbalance, also strengthening blood vessels and working as an anti-inflammatory.
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