Boost Performance with This Simple Workout Tip
Many people don’t pay much attention to the sounds in the gym or on the sports field – weights clanking, shoes squeaking, background music. But one common background noise that’s often heard in these settings is the grunt.
While it can be annoying to hear someone unnecessarily grunting during their reps, it turns out that grunting during your workouts can actually have significant performance benefits. A new study in the Scientific Journal of Sports and Performance suggests that grunting during explosive movements may increase power output.
Alexander Rothstein, an exercise physiologist and instructor at New York Institute of Technology, explains the science behind this phenomenon. When athletes grunt during high-intensity efforts, the forceful exhale involved in grunting can enhance strength and power. This abdominal pressure created by forceful exhaling helps maintain airflow and core stability, leading to improved performance and reduced fatigue.
The study involving martial artists performing explosive moves showed a noticeable increase in power output when grunting. This suggests that incorporating a forceful exhale, with or without the audible grunt, can benefit your workouts by improving core stability and enhancing power generation.
Rothstein recommends using this technique during activities that require core stability and exertion, such as heavy lifts, challenging sets, or explosive movements. By focusing on forceful exhaling, you can optimize your performance and enhance your mind-muscle connection. Remember that the key is the exhale itself, not necessarily the sound it makes.
So next time you’re at the gym or on the field, consider incorporating this simple yet effective breathing technique to take your workouts to the next level.
Here is the rewritten text:
Improving performance and promoting better health are key goals. According to Rothstein, exhaling forcefully can provide significant health benefits by helping maintain blood pressure, preventing early fatigue, and encouraging proper engagement of core muscles without the need for breath-holding shortcuts. In the gym, the focus should be on mechanics rather than noise level. While loud yells may feel satisfying, Rothstein advises a strong outward push of air instead of shouting for better performance. Basic etiquette should also be observed, such as avoiding forcefully exhaling into someone’s face.
