Harnessing the Power of the Spleen for Enhanced Athletic Performance
The Surprising Way to Boost Oxygen Delivery to Muscles
Go with the flow! Harnessing the power of the spleen, a fist-sized organ near the stomach that stores and filters blood, has been shown to enhance athletic performance. When the spleen contracts, it releases stored red blood cells into the bloodstream, improving oxygen delivery to muscles.
The Science Behind the Spleen
Researchers from Greece conducted a study to investigate the effects of the mammalian diving reflex on athletic performance. The diving reflex, a survival mechanism that slows heart rate and redirects blood flow to the brain and heart, was triggered by having athletes hold their breath and dunk their faces in cold water before running on a treadmill.
Activating the Diving Reflex
There are a few ways to activate the diving reflex:
- Submerge your face in a bowl of water colder than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, hold your breath for 30 seconds, and repeat as necessary.
- Place ice cubes in a Ziploc bag or grab a bag of frozen vegetables and press it against your face, making sure it covers your eyes and the space above your cheekbones. Hold your breath for six to eight seconds each beat.
- Splash cold water on your face or take a cold shower.
Results of the Study
In the study, the average breath hold was 71 seconds, and there was a two-minute break between each set. The volunteers started the treadmill test two minutes after the final breath hold. The results showed a slight but noticeable improvement in endurance, with the participants lasting 0.75% longer on average.
Conclusion
The study suggests that harnessing the power of the spleen through the mammalian diving reflex can improve athletic performance. By contracting the spleen, athletes can increase oxygen delivery to muscles, leading to improved endurance. While further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms, the results are promising.
FAQs
Q: Can anyone activate the diving reflex?
A: Yes, anyone can activate the diving reflex by following the methods described above.
Q: Is the diving reflex only beneficial for athletes?
A: No, the diving reflex can also help with anxiety and panic attacks by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation.
Q: How often should I practice the diving reflex?
A: It’s recommended to practice the diving reflex a few minutes before competition or as needed.
Q: Are there any contraindications for practicing the diving reflex?
A: Yes, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or hypothyroidism, should consult with a healthcare professional before practicing the diving reflex.
