Study: swearing can improve exercise performance
By Arthur Berg
source type=”image/avif” srcset=”https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-180×180.avif 180w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-400×400.avif 400w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-600×600.avif 600w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-640×360.avif 640w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-800×450.avif 800w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-1200×675.avif 1200w, https://cdn.itzine.ru/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash-1600×800.avif 1600w, https://forgeeks.pro/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/soy-breno-yrggcphso3e-unsplash.avif 1920w”> Results showed that participants held their own body weight significantly longer when using a swear word compared to when they said a neutral word. In a second experiment, the researchers repeated the technique with a new group of 94 participants, but added a factor called observer apathy, which is linked to the disengagement effect. The scientists assumed that people in the gym may worry about how they look in the eyes of others, but in practice, most people are busy with their own workouts and do not pay attention to others. Recognizing this apathy, the study notes, can reduce internal barriers and improve performance. Awareness of this apathy, the study suggests, can reduce internal barriers and improve performance. In the end, both experiments supported the hypothesis that swearing allows one to sustain effort longer while performing a physically demanding task. The use of swear words helped participants overcome internal limitations, achieve goals, increase self-confidence, and enter a more productive psychological state. At the end of the study, both experiments supported the hypothesis that swearing allows participants to maintain effort longer while performing a physically demanding task. The authors of the study conclude that swearing can be a simple and accessible tool to improve physical activity performance.
