Several studies have explored whether scents can affect the body during exercise.
Among others, peppermint, citrus, lavender, and ammonia have been linked to changes in performance, concentration, and well-being, according to Healthline.
However, a research review published in Physiology & Behavior in 2024 found that the results vary considerably.
The effects depend on factors such as the type of scent, the form of exercise, and the design of the study.
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A small study
The new study, published in Frontiers in Physiology, included 23 young men who regularly performed strength training.
On three separate test days, they were exposed to the scent of either dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or water before performing leg exercises.
The researchers also measured the participants' hunger and feelings of fullness before the workout.
Because the study included only young men and focused on a single type of exercise, experts emphasize that the findings cannot be generalized to everyone.
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The greatest effect
On average, participants completed 18 more repetitions after smelling dark chocolate than after smelling water.
Milk chocolate also improved performance, but only by an average of nine additional repetitions.
The researchers also found that the scent of dark chocolate made participants feel less hungry and more satisfied before training.
Experts therefore believe the study is an interesting first step, but larger studies are needed before the scent of chocolate can be recommended as a method for improving exercise performance.
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