Did anyone catch the shocking research synopsis in December's "Experience Life" magazine, entitled "I Think, Therefore I'm Strong"? In case you missed it, let me fill you in on a finding that might prove helpful in this over-scheduled holiday season: you can get stronger just by imagining exercising!
Researchers at Quebec's Bishop
University conducted a study on 30 student athletes. 10 participants were randomly selected to
mentally practice training their hip flexors. 10 participants were
randomly selected to physically exercise on a hip flexor weight machine. The remaining 10 acted as a control group that did not engage in any
mental or physical training.
Before the study began, all participants
were tested on amount of weight lifted using their hip flexors. At
the end of two week study, the participants were once again tested on the
amount of weight that they were able to lift on a hip flexor weight
machine.
Participants from the
control group achieved no gains in physical strength. Those who took part in physical or mental exercise saw a significant
increase in the weight they were able to lift using their
hip flexors. Participants who mentally imagined exercising their hip
flexors were able to lift 24% more weight, and participants who
physically exercised were able to lift 28% more weight.
Now don't go quitting the gym just yet! Remember, the study did not look at long-term strength gains, or maintenance of strength via mental imagery. Nor can we assume that imagining exercise will increase metabolism, improve mood, or provide any other benefits of actual physical exercise. But it does feel good to know that, should the demands of the season cause a missed workout or two, our mental capacities can pick up a little slack. But I'd still better see you at bootcamp!
Shackell, E. M., & Standing, L. G. (2007). Mind over matter: Mental training increases physical strength. North American Journal of Psychology, 9, 189-200.
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