A simple trick involving breath-holding and cold water immersion could help boost your athletic performance, according to recent research from Greece. The technique centers around the spleen, a fist-sized organ that plays a key role in blood filtration and storage. When the spleen contracts, it releases stored red blood cells into the bloodstream, increasing oxygen delivery to muscles. This process can improve endurance, especially during aerobic activities like running.
The experiment involved 17 athletes, who were instructed to hold their breath and dunk their faces in cold water before running on a treadmill. The combination of breath-holding and cold exposure prompted a physiological response known as the mammalian diving reflex. This reflex, which is triggered when your head is submerged in cold water, causes the body to slow the heart rate, redirect blood flow to vital organs like the brain and heart, and contract the spleen.
This reaction prioritizes blood flow to the brain and heart, which are critical for survival, while reducing circulation to less essential muscles. By contracting the spleen, the body releases red blood cells into the bloodstream, enhancing the delivery of oxygen to muscles, which is crucial for sustaining physical activity. As a result, athletes who practiced this technique showed improved endurance during treadmill exercises.
The study’s findings suggest that incorporating this simple trick before a workout could be a powerful tool for athletes looking to increase their endurance. While it may seem unconventional, the science behind it supports the idea that the body’s natural response to cold exposure and breath-holding can provide a boost during exercise. This method could be especially beneficial for those who struggle with maintaining energy throughout long workouts or endurance sports.
For anyone looking to implement this strategy, it’s easy to replicate: simply take a deep breath, submerge your face in cold water, and hold your breath for a few seconds. This pre-workout ritual may sound strange, but its potential benefits for improving physical performance could make it worth trying.
Although further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of this practice, the current results are promising. The next time you head to the gym or hit the track, consider adding this quick trick to your routine and see if it enhances your performance.