Kratom and Sports: What You Should Know

TL;DR: This article explores the topic of kratom and sports, examining why some athletes and fitness enthusiasts discuss kratom in workout or recovery contexts. While there are anecdotal reports of using kratom for energy, focus, or relaxation, there is no scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in athletic performance. Kratom remains unregulated, with potential legal and health considerations. Always consult a healthcare provider before using kratom for any sport-related purpose.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not promote or endorse kratom use. Kratom is not FDA-approved, and its legal status varies by location. Always consult a healthcare professional before purchasing or using kratom products.

From protein powders to electrolyte gels, the health and fitness niche is filled with products that claim to improve athletic performance. Recently, kratom - a botanical native to Southeast Asia - has started appearing in conversations around physical activity and recovery.

But how exactly does kratom relate to sports, and what are people saying about it?

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• The background of kratom and how it’s traditionally used
• Why some athletes talk about kratom in a fitness context
• What the science says (and doesn’t say) about kratom and sports
• Key considerations if you’re researching kratom in a sport-related setting

Let’s get into it.

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. For centuries, its leaves have been used traditionally in Southeast Asia.

The leaves of the kratom plant contain naturally occurring compounds called alkaloids, most notably mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. These alkaloids are believed to interact with receptors in the brain, although the exact mechanisms and long-term effects remain under study.

In the West, kratom products are typically sold in powder, capsule, or extract form. But remember - they are not regulated as dietary supplements or approved for medical use in the U.S.

The use of kratom in sport settings is still niche, but a growing number of athletes and fitness enthusiasts mention kratom in online discussions. Some report using it:

• Before workouts for motivation or energy
• During recovery, to help relax or unwind
• For focus during long training sessions

Keep in mind that these are user-reported experiences, not clinical evidence. There are no official guidelines or safety recommendations for using kratom in sports contexts.

Here’s where things get more complicated. Despite growing public interest, there is very limited scientific research linking kratom with exercise or physical performance.

Most existing kratom studies focus on its chemical composition and alkaloid content, reported use patterns and safety concerns, or potential dependency or withdrawal symptoms with frequent use.

There are currently no peer-reviewed studies confirming that kratom improves strength, endurance, or recovery in athletic contexts.

If you're an athlete or active individual curious about kratom, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Legality

Kratom is banned or regulated in several countries and some U.S. states. Before considering any form of kratom, check your local laws and make sure you act in compliance with them.

• U.S.: Legal at the federal level but banned in certain states (e.g., Alabama, Indiana)
• International: Banned in some countries, such as Australia and parts of Europe

Sports Regulations

While kratom is not currently listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), that doesn't mean it's free of concern. Many sports organizations discourage the use of unregulated substances, particularly those with psychoactive effects or unknown safety profiles. If you treat your sports career seriously, keep this in mind.

Mental and Physical Impact

Kratom's interaction with the body is complex. It may produce stimulant-like effects at lower servings and more sedative effects at higher ones. This variability makes it difficult to predict how kratom might impact sports performance.

What does it mean for people involved in competitive or regulated sports? Again - any supplement, even a natural one, should be approached with caution.

Athletes looking to support focus, energy, or recovery have many evidence-based options at their disposal, including:

• Hydration and electrolyte supplements
• Sleep optimization
• Caffeine (in moderate amounts)
• Scientifically reviewed recovery tools

If you’re looking for ways to support your workouts or performance, these alternatives are often a better-studied and more widely accepted starting point. However, it also doesn’t mean new research proving kratom’s effectiveness in sports and athletic performance won’t emerge in the future.

Q: Is kratom a performance-enhancing substance?

A: There’s no scientific evidence that kratom enhances athletic performance. Reports are anecdotal and vary by user.

Q: Can I use kratom before a workout?

A: Some people report doing so, but there are no official recommendations. The effects can be unpredictable, especially when combined with other supplements.

Q: Is kratom allowed in competitive sports?

A: While it may not appear on banned substance lists, many sports organizations advise against unregulated substances. Check with your specific governing body.

Kratom and sports might seem like an interesting combination, but the current landscape is full of unknowns. While some fitness enthusiasts experiment with kratom in workout routines, these experiences are not backed by science, and no regulatory body supports kratom as a sports supplement.

Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone hitting the gym, your best strategy is to stay informed, prioritize safety, and talk to your doctor before trying anything new - especially substances like kratom, which remain unregulated.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider and review your local laws before considering kratom for any purpose, including athletic use.

Sources:

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6598159/
• https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2814305
• https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-and-kratom
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-76119-w