Last week, I wrote about how I can do hard things. What I didn’t write about is why I can do hard things. And I think I now know the answer …
According to science, it’s because I curse. A LOT.
Let me explain …
One of my daily reads is a newsletter called, Interesting Facts. Recently, in the Science & Technology section, I read an article about a series of studies that proved swearing increases a person’s strength.
The hypothesis was simple: saying sh*t or f*ck (my favorite) while performing “short, intense tasks requiring strength and power” (such as push-ups and planks or HIIT workouts) will improve physical performance.
Despite being taboo, the research proved to be right: Cursing does make you stronger. I guess that explains why I can hold this plank on a Bosu ball and perform push-ups (albeit it, shakily) #iykyk.
Because I always like to check my sources, I dug into the research to make sure this wasn’t just a one-off study that couldn’t be replicated. Here’s what I found:
Multiple studies supported the theory, explaining four distinct mechanisms that kick in when you swear while performing intense, powerful tasks:
- Your sympathetic nervous system (flight or fight) is activated.
- A state of disinhibition (not holding back) increases.
- Your pain threshold increases while pain perception decreases.
- Your grip strength improves.
All of these lead to improved physical performance. And I’d argue it increases mental strength, too, through the disinhibition process and increased pain tolerance. (This is supported by the American Psychological Association and other psychiatry organizations and publications.)
As a #gymgirlie and a foul-mouthed woman of a certain age, I feel validated.
Cursing is my biggest vice. I (admittedly) have the mouth of a trucker. Or a sailor on leave. I know it’s not ladylike. I know it makes my parents cringe.
But as far as vices go, there are much worse habits in which I could indulge—like drinking, smoking, using drugs, or watching porn. (None of which I do, for the record.)
So I’ll stick with swearing as my worst habit. After all, it’s making me stronger. I have the muscles to prove it.
Don’t like it? Then you can just f*ck off—respectfully, of course😉.
—LJDT
