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The Smell of Dark Chocolate Could Make a Leg Workout Easier, Even on an Empty Stomach
In a small University of Malaya study, 23 men fasted for at least 10 hours and did about 18 more leg extensions after dark chocolate scent.
- University of Malaya researchers found exposing fasted men to a 90% dark chocolate odor before exercise increases leg extension volume. Published in Frontiers, the study showed participants completed about 18 more repetitions with the dark chocolate scent.
- Scientists describe this as the 'cephalic phase,' where the body prepares for a meal by suppressing hunger signals. This anticipatory state allows participants to train longer without feeling increased physical strain during their workout.
- The study recruited 23 moderately trained men who had fasted for at least 10 hours. While 90% dark chocolate provided the largest boost, 60% milk chocolate also helped participants complete about nine additional repetitions compared to water.
- Senior author Mohamed Nashrudin said, "Sniffing a 90% dark chocolate odour added about 18 more repetitions to participants." Athletes reported no difference in perceived effort despite the increased volume, suggesting the scent enables harder training without additional fatigue.
- Researchers noted this exploratory study involved only men, leaving it unclear whether effects apply to women or older lifters. Experts believe other familiar, appealing food scents might trigger similar psychological shifts in appetite and performance in future research.
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Sniffing chocolate scent boosts leg workout performance without extra effort
When was the last time you went to the gym and found working out a bit harder than expected? Leg day in particular can be tough, but a new Frontiers in Physiology study found a promising trick that might make it easier: sniffing chocolate.
·United States
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In one study, after smelling chocolate, young men made more repetitions in leg exercises — without feeling more strained, which could be behind it.
Bristol PostReposted by 
Wales Online
Wales OnlineChocolate could boost performance in the gym - but you don't eat it
A new study found it could boost how much exercise people are able to do
·Bristol, United Kingdom
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left3Leaning Right4Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution42% Center
Bias Distribution
- 42% of the sources are Center
42% Center
L 25%
C 42%
R 33%
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