(And Why You Might Want To)
I'm going to talk about something I don't usually discuss: supplements.
After 27 years of martial arts training and 12 years of running a physical academy, my joints have taken a beating. That's just the reality when you've spent decades doing high-impact training before switching to internal arts.
Two years ago, I started using FLEXIBLE collagen by LEMAlab. I'm not sponsored by them, nobody asked me to write this. I'm sharing it because it's genuinely helped me, and I want my students to know about it.
Collagen in Traditional Chinese Practice
Interestingly, when I mentioned taking collagen to my shifu Master Yuan Xiu Gang, he was surprised to find out I was taking it too. He's been using collagen for years.
In China, this is common knowledge among martial artists. It's not seen as some new trend - it's just practical. If you want to maintain your practice as you age, you support your body. Collagen is part of that.
This conversation made me realize that sometimes the West "discovers" things that traditional practitioners have known for a long time.
What It Does
The simple version: as we age, our bodies produce less collagen. This affects our joints, connective tissue, skin, and recovery time. For people practicing Tai Chi, Qigong, or any flexibility-based training, this matters.
FLEXIBLE contains hydrolyzed collagen peptides plus three additional ingredients that support joint health and reduce inflammation. The collagen comes from grass-fed cattle, and it's third-party tested.
My Experience
I've been taking it for two years now. Here's what I noticed:
- Less stiffness in my knees and lower back, especially in the morning
- Faster recovery after intensive training sessions
- Better flexibility overall
- More resilience in my joints during extended practice
The first two weeks, I didn't notice anything. By week 4-6, the stiffness started improving. After six months, the benefits became really clear. Now at two years, I don't want to train without it.
How to Take It for Best Results
This is important. Not all ways of taking collagen are equal.
What Helps Absorption:
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis in your body. Without it, your body can't properly use the collagen you're taking. I mix my collagen with fresh lemon juice in water, or I take it with a small piece of fruit. Kiwi, orange, or berries work well.
You can also take it with a smoothie that contains vitamin C-rich fruits. This significantly improves absorption.
What Reduces Absorption:
I used to mix collagen with my morning coffee. Then I learned that coffee contains compounds (tannins and polyphenols) that can interfere with protein absorption. The same goes for tea, especially black tea.
This doesn't mean coffee destroys collagen, but it's not optimal. Now I take my collagen 30 minutes before or after my coffee, not mixed together.
Best Practice:
Take collagen on an empty stomach in the morning with vitamin C. Wait 20-30 minutes, then have your coffee or tea. Or take it before bed with some vitamin C.
I personally take it first thing in the morning: warm water, collagen, fresh lemon juice. Simple. Then I have my coffee 30 minutes later.
Who Should Consider This
You might benefit from this if you:
- Practice internal martial arts regularly
- Are over 40 and notice your joints aren't what they used to be
- Want to support your flexibility training from the inside
- Are recovering from joint injuries
- Notice longer recovery times after training
Important Notes
This is not medicine. If you have serious joint problems, see a doctor first.
Collagen supplements take time to work - usually 4-12 weeks. If you expect immediate results, you'll be disappointed.
Also, this won't replace proper training, good form, or adequate rest. It's a supplement, meaning it supplements what you're already doing.
The absorption advice I'm sharing is based on current research, but everyone's body is different. Pay attention to what works for you.
Bottom Line
I don't recommend many products. But this one has genuinely improved my training and daily comfort. At 50+, maintaining flexibility and joint health isn't optional if I want to keep practicing and teaching.