Zhang Weili, the former UFC women's strawweight champion, commands respect for her explosive striking, relentless pace, and remarkable resilience inside the Octagon. Yet the foundation of her sustained elite performance lies in recovery and conditioning practices that often escape the spotlight. Over the years, Zhang has publicly credited Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a cornerstone of her injury rehabilitation and performance enhancement. From customized herbal formulas to targeted acupuncture and cupping, TCM has become an integral part of her athletic regimen. This article explores how Zhang Weili leverages ancient TCM principles to recover from the brutal demands of professional MMA and maintain the elite physical condition required to compete at the highest level.

Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine in an Athletic Context

TCM is a comprehensive medical system with roots stretching back more than 2,000 years. Unlike Western medicine, which often isolates specific symptoms or physiological systems, TCM views the body as an interconnected whole where physical, emotional, and environmental factors continuously interact. Central to TCM is the concept of Qi (vital energy), which circulates through channels known as meridians. Health is seen as a state of dynamic balance between yin (cooling, restorative) and yang (active, warming), while disease or injury arises when Qi becomes blocked or unbalanced.

For athletes, TCM offers a holistic alternative or complement to conventional sports medicine. Rather than simply treating the site of an injury, TCM practitioners aim to restore overall harmony in the body, thereby creating an optimal environment for natural healing. In Zhang Weili's case, this approach has been especially valuable for managing the cumulative stress of weight cutting, intense training camps, and repeated microtrauma to joints and soft tissues. The philosophy of TCM also emphasizes prevention: by identifying subtle imbalances before they become symptomatic, athletes can avoid many common overuse injuries.

Key TCM modalities used in sports recovery include acupuncture, cupping therapy, herbal medicine, moxibustion, and tuina (therapeutic massage). Each technique addresses different aspects of an athlete's needs: pain relief, inflammation reduction, improved circulation, faster tissue repair, and mental recovery. The integration of these modalities is often prescribed in a synergistic manner—for example, acupuncture may open energy channels while herbal medicine nourishes the underlying deficiency.

The TCM Concept of 'Blood Stagnation' in Sports Injuries

A core pathophysiological concept in TCM is blood stagnation, which describes the accumulation of blood or fluids in tissues due to trauma or overuse. In Western terms, this corresponds to bruising, swelling, and localized ischemia. TCM practitioners treat blood stagnation with herbs that 'move blood' and 'transform stasis,' such as San Qi (notoginseng) and Pu Huang (cattail pollen). These herbs are often used in poultices or oral formulas to speed resolution of hematomas and reduce adhesion formation—a critical goal for fighters who need full range of motion for grappling and striking.

Zhang Weili's Journey with TCM

Zhang Weili's relationship with TCM began long before she entered the Octagon. Growing up in the Hebei province of China, she was exposed to traditional health practices from an early age. Her grandmother used herbal teas and moxibustion for common ailments, and Zhang recalls receiving cupping treatments as a child during flu season. However, it was only after she started professional MMA and experienced the inevitable injuries—sprains, strains, contusions, and the chronic wear of training—that she sought out TCM as a deliberate therapeutic tool.

In interviews, Zhang has described how TCM has helped her recover more quickly from injuries that would otherwise sideline an athlete for weeks. For example, after sustaining a hand injury during preparation for her title defense against Joanna Jędrzejczyk at UFC 248 in 2020, her camp incorporated herbal compresses and targeted acupuncture to reduce swelling and maintain mobility. The hand injury, which involved ligament strain in her knuckles, was treated with a combination of Da Huang (rhubarb) compresses to reduce inflammation and acupuncture at points LI4 (Hegu) and LI11 (Quchi) to promote local circulation. Zhang was able to continue striking drills with modified gloves within ten days, a timeline she attributes to TCM.

Similarly, following her losses to Rose Namajunas, Zhang focused heavily on TCM to reset her body and mind. The first loss by knockout in April 2021 was physically and emotionally jarring. She described feeling a sense of 'Qi depletion' and poor sleep quality afterward. Her TCM practitioner prescribed a formula containing Suan Zao Ren (sour jujube seed) and Bai Zi Ren (arborvitae seed) to calm the spirit and nourish the heart blood—a classic TCM approach for trauma-related anxiety. Within weeks, Zhang reported improved sleep and a renewed mental clarity that she credits with helping her reclaim the title in her next fight.

Herbal Medicine for Inflammation and Tissue Repair

Herbal medicine is arguably the most sophisticated branch of TCM, with thousands of plant, mineral, and animal-based ingredients catalogued over centuries. For Zhang Weili, custom herbal formulas are prescribed based on her current injury profile, training load, and even her menstrual cycle (as TCM recognizes cyclical hormonal changes as part of overall balance). This personalized approach allows for fine-tuning that is often absent in one-size-fits-all Western supplements.

Common herbs used in sports recovery include Hong Hua (safflower) and Dang Gui (Chinese angelica root), which are believed to promote blood circulation and reduce stagnation—a key concept in TCM pathology. Herbs such as Huang Qi (astragalus) are used to bolster the immune system and energy reserves, while Du Zhong (Eucommia bark) strengthens bones and tendons. For acute injuries, Zhang's team may add Rou Gui (cinnamon bark) to warm the channels and promote blood flow, or Huang Lian (coptis) to clear heat and infection if there is any sign of inflammation with heat signs.

Zhang's team works with experienced TCM herbalists to adjust formulas week by week, ensuring that each herb's synergistic effect targets her specific needs, from acute inflammation after a fight to chronic joint stability during training cycles. The herbs are typically decocted into a tea, but Zhang also uses concentrated powder extracts for convenience during travel. Herbal compresses—muslin bags filled with steamed herbs applied directly to injured areas—are another staple in her recovery kit, especially for large muscle groups like quadriceps and latissimus dorsi.

Modern research has begun to validate some of these traditional uses. A 2021 meta-analysis in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that certain TCM herbal compounds can significantly reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines and accelerate tissue regeneration in animal models of muscle injury. Another study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2022) demonstrated that Hong Hua injection improved microcirculation and promoted angiogenesis in injured tendons. While human studies remain limited, the anecdotal evidence from athletes like Zhang points to real-world effectiveness that goes beyond placebo. Moreover, TCM herbs are often combined in ways that modulate multiple pathways simultaneously, which may explain their efficacy in complex conditions like sports overuse injuries.

Acupuncture and Cupping for Pain Management and Performance

Acupuncture has become one of the most widely accepted TCM modalities in Western sports medicine. Thin needles are inserted at specific points along meridians to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, triggering the release of endorphins and other neurotransmitters that mitigate pain. For Zhang, acupuncture is a regular part of her recovery routine, especially for her lower back, hips, and shoulders—areas that take enormous punishment from grappling, wrestling, and striking.

Zhang's acupuncturist often uses a combination of local points (around the injured area) and distal points (such as on the opposite limb or ear) to balance the body's energetic response. For example, to treat her chronic shoulder impingement from wrestling drills, she receives needles at local points like LI15 (Jianyu) and SI9 (Jianzhen), combined with distal points like GB34 (Yanglingquan) and ST38 (Tiaokou) to release the sinew channels. Electroacupuncture—passing a mild electric current through the needles—is sometimes used for deeper pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Cupping therapy, another hallmark of TCM, creates localized suction to lift the skin and superficial muscle layers. This action is believed to increase blood flow, release fascial restrictions, and promote the removal of metabolic waste products like lactic acid. Observers have often noted the characteristic circular bruises on Zhang's back and shoulders during fight week—visible evidence of her commitment to cupping. She typically uses stationary cupping (suction left in place for 5–10 minutes) and gliding cupping (oil applied and cups moved over the muscle) to mobilize tight fascia. While some skeptics question the scientific basis, a 2022 review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine noted that cupping can improve local microcirculation and reduce pain intensity in athletes when applied correctly. The review also suggested potential mechanotransduction effects, where the suction stretches skin and fascia, altering cellular signaling to reduce inflammation.

Beyond physical benefits, Zhang has stated that regular acupuncture sessions help her maintain a clearer mental state, reduce anxiety before fights, and sleep more deeply. Acupuncture points such as HT7 (Shenmen) and Yintang (a point between the eyebrows) are known for their calming effects on the mind. This psychological dimension is especially important in MMA, where mental sharpness often determines the difference between victory and defeat. Zhang has spoken about using acupuncture as a pre-fight ritual to center herself, often falling asleep during the treatment before a bout.

TCM for Performance Optimization

TCM is not only about healing injuries; it also serves as a performance-enhancing tool. Zhang Weili has spoken about using specific tonifying herbs and acupuncture protocols to boost her stamina, speed, and mental focus during the most grueling periods of training camp.

From a TCM perspective, athletic performance depends on the robust flow of Qi and the balance between yin (cooling, restorative energy) and yang (active, warming energy). Overexertion can deplete yin, leading to fatigue, irritability, and a weakened immune system—a state that Western sports medicine might recognize as overtraining syndrome. TCM intervenes by nourishing yin with herbs like Sheng Di Huang (raw rehmannia) and Mai Men Dong (ophiopogon root), while also supporting yang with mild stimulants like ginseng and astragalus. Zhang's herbalist often adjusts the ratio of these herbs based on her training phase: more yang-tonifying in the early heavy sparring weeks, and more yin-nourishing as the fight approaches to conserve energy for competition day.

Acupuncture points such as ST36 (Zusanli) on the lower leg and CV6 (Qihai) below the navel are often stimulated to increase overall energy and cardiovascular efficiency. ST36 is classically known for building Qi and blood, while CV6 is considered a 'sea of qi' that fortifies the body's core. These points are used in combination with ear acupuncture (auriculotherapy) to regulate stress hormones and optimize recovery during sleep. Zhang's team tailors these treatments to the phase of her training: more yang-focused protocols during heavy sparring weeks, and more yin-restoring therapies as the fight approaches to ensure she arrives on fight night both powerful and calm.

TCM and the Fight-Specific Microcycle

Zhang's TCM regimen adapts to the weekly microcycle of her training camp. On high-volume sparring days, she receives acupuncture at points that promote blood circulation and limb flexibility. On strength training days, the focus shifts to points that support the kidneys and lower back, such as BL23 (Shenshu) and BL52 (Zhishi). Herbal formulas are also timed: a pre-workout formula often includes Ren Shen (Panax ginseng) and Shan Yao (Chinese yam) for sustained energy, while a post-workout formula emphasizes cooling herbs like Lu Gen (reed rhizome) to reduce heat and inflammation.

Beyond the physical, TCM also addresses the emotional toll of combat sports. The liver meridian is considered the seat of anger, frustration, and stress—emotions that can cloud judgment and lead to tactical errors. By balancing the liver with herbs like Chai Hu (bupleurum) and Bo He (peppermint), and by using acupuncture points such as LR3 (Taichong) and GB34, TCM helps Zhang maintain composure under pressure. She displayed this composure masterfully in her second fight with Jędrzejczyk, where she absorbed significant damage but remained strategically composed, ultimately winning a split decision. Zhang has credited her ability to stay calm under fire to the mental resilience cultivated through TCM practices.

Scientific Perspectives on TCM in Modern Sports Medicine

The integration of TCM into high-level athletics is often met with skepticism from Western-trained physicians who demand double-blind randomized trials. However, a growing body of research supports several TCM interventions for sports recovery. For example, a 2019 study in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine found that acupuncture can reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) by up to 40% compared to sham treatment. Another study in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that cupping therapy decreased pain scores in athletes with chronic neck and back pain significantly more than standard physiotherapy alone.

Furthermore, herbal medicine's anti-inflammatory properties have drawn attention from the sports science community. A systematic review published in Phytotherapy Research in 2020 concluded that several TCM herbs, particularly those rich in flavonoids and polysaccharides, exhibit measurable anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects with fewer side effects than nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This is particularly relevant for fighters like Zhang, who must avoid any substances flagged by the UFC's anti-doping policy. All herbal treatments are carefully screened by her medical team to ensure compliance with USADA regulations. Zhang's TCM practitioner works closely with a pharmacologist to verify that no banned substances appear in the herbs, and all formulas are documented for review.

It is worth noting that TCM is not a substitute for proper Western medical care, advanced diagnostics, or modern surgical interventions when necessary. Instead, it functions as a complementary system that fills gaps left by conventional methods—especially for chronic, recurring issues that do not respond well to standard treatment. Zhang Weili herself emphasizes that she works with both a Western-trained sports physician and a TCM practitioner, combining the best of both worlds. For instance, if an MRI reveals a partial ligament tear, she will receive Western-grade immobilization and physical therapy, while TCM herbs and acupuncture accelerate local tissue healing and reduce scar tissue formation.

Criticisms and Limitations of TCM in Elite Sport

Despite growing acceptance, TCM faces legitimate criticisms in the sports medicine community. Many traditional theories, such as meridians and Qi, lack direct anatomical correspondence and are not easily testable. Some herbal preparations have been contaminated with heavy metals or adulterated with pharmaceutical drugs, raising safety concerns. Additionally, the placebo effect is powerful in subjective outcomes like pain and energy levels, and many TCM studies lack rigorous blinding. However, Zhang's team argues that the consistency of results—faster return to training after injury, enhanced sleep quality, reduced recovery time—suggests efficacy beyond placebo. The team also sources herbs from certified organic growers and tests each batch for purity.

Integrating TCM with Modern Training Regimens

The use of TCM is not limited to Zhang Weili. Many Chinese Olympic athletes have incorporated TCM into their training programs, with official support from China's National Sports Administration. The country has even established specialized TCM sports medicine clinics that cater to elite competitors. This institutional backing provides Zhang access to some of the most experienced TCM practitioners in the world, who can fine-tune protocols with remarkable precision. For example, the TCM center at the Beijing Sport University offers integrative programs for athletes in combat sports, gymnastics, and weightlifting, leveraging decades of clinical experience.

In practice, Zhang's typical pre-fight camp includes:

  • Daily acupuncture sessions during the first two weeks of camp to baseline her body, then tapering to two to three times per week as the fight approaches. Sessions last 30–45 minutes and may include electroacupuncture for larger muscle groups.
  • Biweekly cupping sessions focused on the upper back, shoulders, and legs to release tension from sparring and weight training. Gliding cupping is used for the posterior chain, while stationary cupping targets specific trigger points.
  • A customized herbal formula taken in the morning and evening, adjusted weekly based on her energy levels, sleep quality, and any new minor injuries. The formula is often taken as a decoction or as a powder mixed with warm water.
  • Tuina massage once a week to address specific fascial restrictions and improve joint range of motion. Tuina techniques include pressing, rolling, and kneading, and may be combined with topical liniments like Zheng Gu Shui (bone-setting liquid).
  • Meditation and breathing exercises inspired by TCM's Qigong tradition to enhance mind-body connection and stress resilience. Zhang practices Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades) Qigong for 15 minutes each morning during camp.
  • Herbal foot baths with warming herbs such as Di Huang and Zhi Gan Cao to promote circulation and relaxation before sleep—a traditional practice for calming the spirit.

This integrated approach allows Zhang to train at near-maximum intensity while minimizing the risk of overuse injuries and accelerating recovery from acute trauma. It also gives her a psychological edge: the confidence that she is caring for her body with a comprehensive, time-tested system. The holistic nature of TCM aligns with the modern trend toward 'personalized sports medicine,' where treatment is tailored to the individual's biochemistry, genetics, and lifestyle.

Conclusion: The Broader Implications for Sports Medicine

Zhang Weili's success story illustrates the enduring relevance of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts. As modern sports science increasingly embraces holistic and individualized care, TCM offers a rich repository of knowledge that can enhance recovery, optimize performance, and reduce injury risk. While rigorous research is still needed to fully validate many TCM techniques, the empirical experience of elite athletes like Zhang provides compelling evidence for their practical benefits. The institutional support from Chinese sports agencies lends additional credibility and resources for further study.

For trainers, sports medicine professionals, and athletes seeking an edge, TCM does not need to be accepted wholesale. Instead, its principles can be integrated thoughtfully into existing regimens. Acupuncture for pain, cupping for fascial release, and herbs for inflammation are already gaining acceptance in Western clinics. Zhang Weili's career serves as a real-world case study of how these ancient modalities can coexist with cutting-edge training science to produce a fighter who is as resilient in recovery as she is fierce in competition. The key is an open-minded collaboration between Eastern and Western practitioners, always with the athlete's health and performance as the primary focus.

As the MMA world continues to globalize, the cross-pollination of Eastern and Western medical traditions will likely become more common. Zhang Weili is not just a champion in the ring; she is also a living example of how integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine into modern athletic care can unlock human potential in remarkable ways. Her story invites coaches, athletes, and medical professionals to reconsider the boundaries of sports medicine and embrace a truly integrative approach.

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