Vocalizations in exercise: strength, concentration, and social connection

The practice of making noise while exercising has captured the interest of both athletes and researchers. On a recent day in Vedauwoo, a park in Wyoming, a sports enthusiast found himself shouting, grunting, and cursing as he struggled to navigate a challenging crack. This behavior, far from being merely an expression of frustration, could have certain physiological and psychological benefits. Studies on vocalization during exercise are limited, but some have suggested that making sounds can enhance strength and athletic performance. Mary J. Sandage, a speech and language professor at Auburn University, has pointed out that the benefits of shouting may be more related to how we breathe before vocalizing. During intense physical activities, the body often resorts to the Valsalva maneuver, which involves closing the throat while exerting pressure in the lungs. This technique can help stabilize the spine and, in turn, allow for greater force generation. However, the psychological dimension of exercise also plays a crucial role. Sarah Ullrich-French, a sports psychologist, emphasizes that making noise can serve as a mechanism to focus attention and release emotional tension. For some, these vocalizations may be a way to reach an optimal mental state that enhances performance. This is especially evident in disciplines like martial arts, where athletes use short shouts, known as "kiais," to boost their energy and concentration. The noises we produce during exercise are not just a matter of strength or focus. Vocalization can also influence the social environment of the athlete. For example, in a tennis match, a good grunt can mask the sound of the ball's impact, which may disorient the opponent. Marjorie Blackwood, a Canadian tennis champion, emphasizes how noises can alter the perception of the game, affecting the opponent's strategy. Still, it is not uncommon for some athletes to feel uncomfortable making noise, particularly in an environment that values silence. There is a stigma surrounding those who express themselves loudly, especially women. Sandage encourages individuals not to hold back and to utilize any resources that help maximize their performance, as long as respect for others in the environment is maintained. While some may choose to shout, others might find conscious breathing to be an equally effective alternative. Scott Sinnett, a cognitive psychologist, notes that a strong exhalation can serve as a means to release tension without disturbing those around us. The key seems to lie in finding a balance that works for each individual. It is interesting to reflect on how, in the pursuit of improving our physical performance, we may inadvertently affect those around us. A noisy gym or a bustling tennis court can be both a battlefield of personal effort and a space for social interaction. The way we express ourselves physically, whether through shouts or whispers, can have repercussions on our experience and that of others. What is undeniable is that noise during exercise can be a manifestation of effort. From grunts in the gym to exclamations of triumph on the sports stage, these vocal acts are an integral part of the culture of many sports. The next time you feel the urge to make noise while exercising, remember that you are not alone in this experience and that your expression could serve as both a catalyst for your own performance and a way to connect with your surroundings. Thus, the act of making noise while exercising is not just an isolated phenomenon but a complex interplay between physiology, psychology, and social dynamics. From the pursuit of strength to the establishment of connections, each grunt and shout may have a deeper purpose than we initially assume. In a world where noise is often viewed negatively, it may be that, in the context of exercise, it reflects a form of release and self-confidence.