How a pre-race poo can make or break your race
Sports scientist Dr. Chia-Hua Kuo reveals the surprisingly positive links between defecation and endurance performance
Having to “go” has long been the enemy of runners everywhere, but might it hold the key to unlocking higher performance? While any runner can attest to how critical a well-placed porta-potty can be, few realize the powerful science backing it up.
Today on The Shakeout Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Chia-Hua Kuo, professor in the department of health and physical education at the Education University of Hong Kong, to explore the powerful role of defecation in endurance sport. From fatigue delay to enhanced cognition, you’ll never look at your pre-race ritual the same way again.
This episode of The Shakeout Podcast is part one in a special two-part series on Taming the Tummy: how runners of all abilities can take control of their gastrointestinal health to feel better in training and maximize performance on race day. Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll connect with registered dietitian Jessalyn O’Donnell to learn how we can apply the science behind GI distress to training, racing and everyday life.
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