Swearing Boosts Physical Performance, New Research Confirms
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A new study reveals that using profanity during physical exertion can significantly enhance strength and endurance. Published by the American Psychological Association, the research demonstrates a clear link between swearing and improved performance across a range of activities.
Researchers at Keele University in the United Kingdom have uncovered compelling evidence that swearing isn’t just a verbal habit—it’s a potential performance enhancer. The study found that individuals who used profanity while exercising were able to generate more force and sustain effort for longer durations than those who used neutral language.
The Psychology Behind the Profanity
Scientists have identified that swearing during challenging physical activity reduces the mental barriers that typically limit performance. When individuals engage in strenuous tasks while using profanity, they experience a decrease in mental inhibitions, allowing for a greater application of strength and stamina.
This phenomenon appears to alter an individual’s mental state, freeing them from both social constraints and internal hesitations that often hinder peak performance. Research indicates that swearing is associated with a state of psychological disinhibition that directly facilitates physical exertion.
From Ice Water to Chair Push-Ups: Previous Findings
This isn’t the first time researchers have explored the connection between profanity and performance. Lead author Richard Stephens and his colleagues have previously observed similar effects. Earlier investigations showed that people who swear could keep their hands submerged in ice water for longer periods and complete more repetitions during chair push-up exercises.
How the Study Was Conducted
The latest research involved 192 participants across two experiments. In both, participants performed chair bending exercises while repeating either a swear word of their choice or a neutral word every two seconds. Following the exercise, participants completed questionnaires detailing their sensations.
The data revealed a significant difference: participants who used profanity during exercise were able to support their body weight for considerably longer than those who repeated neutral words. Researchers also measured factors like positive emotion, distraction, confidence, and the psychological “flow” state—a state of deep focus and immersion in an activity.
The Link to Psychological Flow and Confidence
By combining data from the two experiments with results from a prior study, researchers determined that the performance advantage was linked to higher levels of psychological flow, distraction, and self-confidence – all key components of an uninhibited state.
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Beyond Physical Challenges: Future Research
The research team is now expanding its investigations to determine if the benefits of swearing extend beyond physical challenges. Stephens’ lab is currently studying the influence of profanity on public speaking and romantic approach behaviors, two situations where hesitation and self-doubt are common.
“In many situations, people hold themselves back – consciously or unconsciously – from using their full strength,” a researcher explained. “Swearing is an easily available way to help you feel focused, confident and less distracted, and ‘go all in’ a little more.”
Stephens emphasized the consistency of the findings, stating, “This is now a well-replicated and reliable finding. But the question is – how is swearing helping us? What is the psychological mechanism?” He added that the findings help explain the prevalence of profanity, noting, “Swearing is literally a calorie-neutral, drug-free, low-cost, and readily available tool at our disposal for when we need a performance boost.” The researchers’ message is clear: “Don’t hold back.”
While the benefits are apparent, it remains unclear whether these effects are universal across all activities or if cultural differences influence how swearing impacts performance. Nevertheless, the research provides a compelling argument for the power of profanity as a readily accessible tool for enhancing performance.
