Archive · 19 Dec 2025
Swearing Enhances Physical Performance by Overcoming Mental Barriers
A new study found that saying swear words can help people do better in physical tasks.
Researchers had people say swear words or neutral words while doing chair push-ups.
Those who swore could do the exercise longer.
The study also found that swearing made people feel more focused, confident, and less distracted.
This means swearing can help people push past their usual limits and perform better.
The researchers think swearing could be useful in other situations too, like public speaking, because it helps people feel more confident and less nervous.
Swearing during physical tasks increases endurance and performance.
Participants who swore lasted significantly longer in chair push-ups.
Swearing correlated with higher reports of flow, distraction from discomfort, and self-confidence.
Researchers suggest swearing helps overcome mental barriers and perform at full capacity.
Future research will explore swearing's applications in scenarios like public speaking.
- Who
- Researchers from Keele University, led by Richard Stephens, PhD
- What
- Study on the effects of swearing on physical performance
- When
- Published in the journal American Psychologist
- Where
- Keele University, UK
- Why
- To understand how swearing can enhance physical and mental performance
- Study Lead
- Richard Stephens, PhD, Keele University
- Journal
- American Psychologist
- Participants
- 192
- Key Finding
- Swearing increases physical endurance and performance
- Measured Factors
- Positive emotions, confidence, distraction, humor, flow
