You may already know that improper stretching can make a workout more painful than beneficial. Even while doing everything right, there can still be painful consequences to a strenuous workout session. You may have tried several things after a workout to ease the pain, but did you know that there is something you can do beforehand to sooth the occasional pain that may pop up during a workout?
Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign were curious about the effects of combining caffeine and exercise. So, to feed their inquisitive minds, they conducted a study on women who consumed moderate amounts of caffeine before their workout sessions. Of the women studied, the ones with the caffeine intake prior to exercise reported up to 46% less pain during the workout.
Why is this possible?
The researchers think this discovery is attributed to the body’s production of adenosine. This chemical is produced by the body to release energy and stimulates pain. During a workout, when the body’s energy is being revitalized, adenosine levels are running high. Because of this, the chemical also signals the brain that there is pain in the body. Scientists think that caffeine hinders the production of adenosine, and thus, blocks the body from believing it is in pain during a really tough workout session.
Thirty minutes before stepping on that treadmill or hitting the weights, enjoy an ice latte. This will give the body enough time to process the caffeine. The study only worked for individuals who had moderate amounts of caffeine in their system. Although the caffeine didn’t eliminate all of the pain they felt throughout the entire exercise routine, it decreased it enough for the individual to push through it.
One thing to remember is that not all caffeine is good according to the findings of this study. Stay away from products that are high in sugar content. Sugar turns into energy, so you will have to workout twice as hard to get rid of the sugar that you’ve just digested. Another thing to understand is that caffeine from sodas and sugary drinks will hinder your workout session even more.
Like anything else, if done correctly, you will see great benefits from this little tip. Stick with the ice latte and you can’t go wrong. Soon, this simple drink will help you have workouts that are much more enjoyable.
To read the details and results of the study, click here.