Runners are always on the hunt for an edge—whether it’s the latest pair of carbon-plated shoes, a magical gel, or a mantra to get through the grind. But what if your next performance booster didn’t come from a store or a training plan, but from your mouth? Specifically, a few choice swear words.
According to a new study published in NeuroReport, swearing can improve physical performance and increase pain tolerance. Researchers tested this in both real-life physical settings and controlled environments, finding that participants who cursed during physical tasks performed better than those who kept things PG.
Translation? Dropping an f-bomb at the right moment might be the key to a shiny new PB.
Why Swearing Works: Science Says It’s Not Just for Sailors
So, how exactly does swearing work its magic? It all comes down to our brain’s fight-or-flight response. Swearing activates this primal mechanism, triggering an adrenaline release, which enhances strength, focus, and pain resistance. It’s like giving your mind and body a quick jolt of power—no pre-workout needed.
Pain tolerance, in particular, gets a major boost from swearing. Ever stub your toe and immediately blurt out something unprintable? That instinctive curse isn’t just venting frustration; it’s helping your brain dial down the pain. For runners, who regularly flirt with discomfort—whether it’s burning quads on a hill or the soul-sucking sensation of hitting the wall—this could be a game-changer.
Strategic Swearing: When and How to Use It on the Run
Not all runs demand profanity, but there are key moments where a well-placed swear word can work wonders. Tackling speed work or intervals? Letting out a colorful phrase before a sprint might give you an extra push. Battling an unforgiving hill? Swear your way to the top. And, of course, the final stretch of a race or long run is prime cursing territory—when your legs feel like bricks, and every step is a mental battle, a little verbal release can help you power through.
But don’t think you need to go full-on R-rated every time you lace up. The power of swearing lies in its emotional impact, not the specific word. If a classic four-letter word doesn’t do it for you, something milder (or hilariously creative) can still deliver the same psychological boost. The key is tapping into that cathartic release—it’s all about what feels natural to you.
Of course, timing and setting are everything. If you’re running through a busy park or in the middle of a family-friendly race, you might want to keep your curses internal. But when you’re on a solo long run, struggling through a grueling workout, or surrounded by a crew that gets your vibe, feel free to let it rip.
Swearing Isn’t Cheating—It’s Science
For years, runners have relied on mantras to push through tough moments: “I am strong,” “Just one more mile,” or even the classic “You’ve got this.” But for some of us, there’s no mantra as motivating as a good, loud swear. And now, thanks to science, we know there’s more to it than just emotional release—it’s a legitimate, biologically-backed performance enhancer.
So, the next time your legs are screaming on that uphill or your lungs are burning in the final stretch, don’t be afraid to get a little salty. Whether it’s an f-bomb, a mild “dang,” or your own unique creation (my personal favorite is “oh rats”), swearing might be the extra fuel you need to crush your goals. Just, you know, maybe watch the volume if you’re running past a daycare.
