Swimming
Swimming is a sport that demands a lot from the human body. In addition to proper technique and physical endurance, it is important for athletes to have a focused mind and sufficient energy to perform movements effectively.
Caffeine
Caffeine is an alkaloid found in various plants such as coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana. It is one of the most consumed substances worldwide and can have various effects on the human body, including stimulation of the central nervous system, reduction of fatigue, and increase in concentration.
Caffeine in Swimming
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that can improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and increase energy and physical endurance. When consumed in moderate doses, caffeine can have beneficial effects on performance in swimming.
Furthermore, scientific studies show that caffeine can increase muscle contraction capacity, improving muscle strength and power. This can be especially useful in short-duration races, such as the 50m and 100m freestyle.
Personal Narrative
As a personal narrative, I have noticed that when I do not drink coffee before swimming class, I feel less energy and strength to perform propulsion with my legs, resulting in bad performance. However, when I drink coffee in the morning before class, I feel more alert and energized, which reflects in better performance in the pool.
I only realized this connection today because it is not my usual habit to drink coffee, as caffeine causes me anxiety, which, in turn, worsens my tics. Therefore, I was able to verify, just like about two months ago, that my performance was better – because I drank coffee.
Summary
In summary, caffeine can be an ally in swimming performance, especially when consumed in moderate doses and within the recommended daily limits. However, it is important to remember that proper technique, consistent training, and healthy nutrition are also essential to achieve good results in the pool.
However, it is important to remember that each individual may react differently to caffeine, and it is advisable to consult a health professional before increasing caffeine consumption, especially if there is a history of heart problems, insomnia, or anxiety.