Buchalski et al. 2026, collagen and tendon outcomes systematic review

Buchalski A, Jeanfavre M, Altorelli C, Leff G. “Collagen Supplementation on Tendon-Related Structural and Performance Outcomes: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 2026;11(1):130. DOI: 10.3390/jfmk11010130.

Systematic review of eight RCTs (n = 257, almost all male) combining collagen supplementation with resistance or plyometric training over 3-15 weeks. Several trials found significant gains in tendon cross-sectional area and stiffness favouring collagen; the rest showed similar directional trends or training-driven gains with no significant between-group difference. Results are inconsistent and the populations are narrow, so the case for tendon benefit is promising but not settled. Limited to moderate.