It seems chocolate has revealed yet another talent.
15 September scientists tested whether the smell of chocolate can affect physical endurance, and got a rather amusing result.
In the experiment, men did more repetitions of leg extensions when chocolate was in the air nearby. What's more, the smell of dark chocolate worked best of all, and subjectively the workout did not feel harder. So you don't even have to eat the chocolate — the body has already been inspired.
What's more, it worked especially well the smell of dark chocolate.
The most interesting part — the participants did not report that the workout became subjectively harder. That is, the muscles worked longer, while the perception of the load barely changed.
Why this happens is not yet entirely clear. The researchers suggest that a pleasant and familiar smell may influence motivation, attention, mood and the perception of fatigue. In other words, the brain gets a small emotional bonus — and the body keeps working a little longer.
It is important, of course, not to turn a single experiment into a rule for everyone. This does not mean that a bar of chocolate next to the exercise machine will automatically replace sleep, nutrition and a training plan.
But the idea itself is wonderful.
People used to take water, a towel and headphones before a workout.
Now, perhaps, the list will have to be supplemented with one more item:
smell the chocolate — and only then squat.
And the main advantage of the method is obvious:
you don't have to eat the calories at all.
