Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and protect themselves from injury on the field or court. One technique that has gained popularity in recent years is chewing on a mouthguard during gameplay. While mouthguards are typically used to protect the teeth and gums from impact, some athletes have found that chewing on them can provide additional benefits such as relief from jaw tension and nervous energy, as well as a potential calming effect on the mind and body.
We will explore the benefits of chewing on a mouthguard for athletes, including protection against dental injuries and concussions, relief from jaw tension, and the potential psychological benefits of this technique. We will also examine personal accounts from athletes such as Steph Curry, who have found chewing to be a helpful technique for staying calm and focused during high-pressure situations.
Why Does Steph Curry Chew on His Mouthguard?
Steph Curry is known for his unique habit of chewing on his mouthguard while playing basketball. He has mentioned that this helps him stay calm and focused on the court, especially during high-pressure situations like free throws. Many athletes have different ways of coping with the stress and intensity of professional sports, and Curry’s method seems to work well for him.
Chewing on the mouthguard can also help reduce stress and tension in the jaw, as it provides a way to release nervous energy. This can be especially helpful for athletes like Curry who rely on quick reflexes and precise movements on the court. Additionally, some research suggests that the act of chewing itself can have a calming effect on the brain, as it stimulates the production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and emotions.
It’s worth noting that chewing on a mouthguard can also have physical benefits for basketball players. Mouthguards are commonly worn to protect against dental injuries and concussions, and chewing on them can help keep them in place during gameplay. This can be especially important for players like Curry who frequently take hard hits and collisions on the court.
The Benefits of Chewing on a Mouthguard
When it comes to sports like basketball, players are at risk of sustaining injuries, especially those that involve the face, mouth, and head. It is for this reason that protective gear such as mouthguards has become standard equipment for basketball players. However, mouthguards offer more than just protection against injuries. In fact, athletes like Steph Curry have discovered that chewing on a mouthguard can also provide a range of benefits that can improve their performance on the court.
Protection Against Dental Injuries and Concussions
Basketball is a contact sport, and players are at risk of getting hit in the face, mouth, and head with an elbow, hand, or ball. Mouthguards protect the teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw from damage during collisions or falls. They also act as shock absorbers that can reduce the impact of a blow to the head, potentially preventing concussions and other head injuries.
Jaw Tension Relief and Release of Nervous Energy
Athletes like Curry who play basketball at a high-level experience a lot of pressure and stress during games. This can lead to tension in the jaw, which can affect performance by reducing agility and responsiveness. Chewing on a mouthguard can help relieve this tension by providing a way to release nervous energy. The act of biting down on the mouthguard can also help improve focus and concentration, allowing players to perform at their best during critical moments in the game.
Research on the Calming Effects of Chewing
Chewing has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain, thanks to the release of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin. These chemicals help regulate mood and emotions, promoting feelings of relaxation and well-being. Chewing can also help reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which can negatively impact performance on the court. Researchers have found that chewing can help improve cognitive function and memory, both of which are essential for basketball players who need to make quick decisions and recall plays during games.
The benefits of chewing on a mouthguard go beyond just protection against injuries. By helping to relieve jaw tension, release nervous energy, and promote relaxation, chewing can improve focus, concentration, and overall performance on the basketball court. Additionally, research has shown that chewing can have a positive impact on mood, memory, and cognitive function, making it a useful tool for athletes like Steph Curry who need to stay sharp and focused during games.
The Psychology of Chewing
The act of chewing on a mouthguard can have a significant impact on an athlete’s mental state, especially during high-pressure situations like basketball games. By providing a physical outlet for nervous energy, chewing can help athletes stay calm and focused on the task at hand. Additionally, there is a psychological component to chewing that involves the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin.
How Chewing Can Help Athletes Stay Calm and Focused During High-pressure Situations
Basketball players like Steph Curry are under intense pressure to perform during games, especially during critical moments like free throws or game-winning shots. This pressure can lead to anxiety and nervousness, which can negatively impact performance. Chewing on a mouthguard can help athletes relieve this tension by providing a physical outlet for nervous energy.
The act of biting down on the mouthguard can also help improve focus and concentration, allowing players to block out distractions and stay focused on the game.
The Role of Neurotransmitters Like Serotonin in Regulating Mood and Emotions
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, emotions, and cognitive function. It is known as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter because it promotes feelings of happiness, relaxation, and well-being. Chewing has been shown to increase the release of serotonin in the brain, which can help athletes stay calm and focused during high-pressure situations. This can help reduce anxiety and nervousness, allowing players to perform at their best.
Additionally, serotonin has been linked to improved cognitive function, including memory and learning. This is important for basketball players who need to be able to recall plays and make quick decisions during games. By promoting the release of serotonin, chewing on a mouthguard can help improve cognitive function, allowing players to think more clearly and react more quickly on the court.
The psychological benefits of chewing on a mouthguard cannot be overstated. By helping athletes stay calm and focused during high-pressure situations and promoting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, chewing can improve performance on the basketball court. Additionally, research has shown that serotonin is involved in cognitive function and memory, making chewing a useful tool for athletes like Steph Curry who need to be able to recall plays and make quick decisions during games.
Curry’s Personal Experience With Chewing
Steph Curry has been open about his habit of chewing on a mouthguard during games and how it helps him on the court. He has credited this habit with contributing to his success as a basketball player, both in terms of his mental state and his physical performance.
Quotes From Curry on His Habit of Chewing and How It Helps Him on the Court
In an interview with ESPN, Curry explained his habit of chewing on a mouthguard during games, saying, “It’s just a comfort thing for me…it kind of puts me in a mental state of being locked in and focused.” He went on to say that the act of chewing helps him stay calm and focused during high-pressure situations, like free throws or game-winning shots. In another interview, he described the mouthguard as a “security blanket” that helps him feel more confident on the court.
How Chewing Has Contributed to Curry’s Success as a Basketball Player
Curry’s habit of chewing on a mouthguard has been credited with contributing to his success as a basketball player. By helping him stay calm and focused, chewing has allowed him to perform at his best in high-pressure situations.
In one memorable example, Curry hit a game-winning three-pointer during the 2016 Western Conference Semifinals while chewing on his mouthguard. The image of him holding the mouthguard between his teeth as he celebrated the shot has become iconic among basketball fans.
In addition to its psychological benefits, chewing has also been shown to have physical benefits for athletes. By providing a way to release nervous energy, chewing can help athletes avoid clenching their jaws or tensing up during games. This can help prevent injuries and improve overall physical performance.
Steph Curry’s habit of chewing on a mouthguard has been an important part of his success as a basketball player. By helping him stay calm and focused during high-pressure situations and providing physical relief for nervous energy, chewing has allowed Curry to perform at his best on the court. His personal experience is a testament to the benefits of this simple but effective technique for athletes looking to improve their performance.
Benefits of Chewing on a Mouthguard for Athletes
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Protection against dental injuries | Mouthguards can help prevent teeth and jaw injuries |
| Protection against concussions | Mouthguards can help absorb impact and reduce risk of injury |
| Jaw tension relief | Chewing can help relieve tension in the jaw and neck |
| Release of nervous energy | Chewing can provide an outlet for nervous energy |
| Calming effect | Chewing can stimulate the release of serotonin and promote a calming effect |
FAQs
How do I choose the right mouthguard for me?
The right mouthguard for you will depend on factors such as the sport you play, the level of protection you need, and your personal preferences. It’s important to choose a mouthguard that fits well and feels comfortable to wear, so consider trying on different types and sizes to find the right fit.
Can chewing on a mouthguard improve my performance in other areas besides sports?
While the benefits of chewing on a mouthguard are most commonly associated with athletics, some people find that chewing gum or using a chewable supplement can help with focus and concentration in other areas of life, such as studying or working.
Can chewing on a mouthguard cause jaw pain or other issues?
It’s possible that chewing on a mouthguard could cause jaw pain or other issues if the mouthguard doesn’t fit well or if you are chewing too aggressively. It’s important to use a mouthguard that fits properly and to avoid excessive or prolonged chewing, especially if you have a history of jaw or dental problems.
Can I use a regular mouthguard instead of a specially designed sports mouthguard?
While any mouthguard can provide some level of protection against dental injuries, specially designed sports mouthguards are recommended for athletes because they offer additional features such as impact resistance and improved breathability. Using a regular mouthguard may not provide the same level of protection and could potentially lead to greater risk of injury.
Is it necessary to chew on a mouthguard to experience its benefits?
While chewing on a mouthguard can provide additional benefits such as jaw tension relief and release of nervous energy, simply wearing a mouthguard can still provide protection against dental injuries and concussions. However, for athletes looking to optimize their performance, chewing on a mouthguard may be a helpful technique to consider.
Conclusion
Chewing on a mouthguard can provide a range of benefits for athletes, including protection against dental injuries and concussions, relief from jaw tension and nervous energy, and a potential calming effect on the mind and body. While the exact mechanisms behind these benefits are still being studied, there is evidence to suggest that chewing can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which can help regulate mood and emotions.
Personal accounts from athletes such as Steph Curry also suggest that chewing can be a helpful technique for staying calm and focused during high-pressure situations. Overall, for athletes looking to improve their performance and protect themselves from injury, using a specially designed sports mouthguard and potentially incorporating chewing into their routine may be a helpful strategy to consider.
