Why Are TikTokers Biting Their Chains While Lifting?
Whether it's lifting straps, belts or the best pre-workout, if you're looking to get the edge in your training, TikTok will be sure to offer a solution. A new trend we didn't expect however: biting your chain while lifting.
There isn't much more to the trend other than that, it's quite simply that people are lifting with their chains in their mouths and using it to bite down onto in order to lift heavier. Unfortunately there aren't any benefits to this simple training tweak beyond the aesthetics.
It's fairly common for people to clench their jaws while lifting, and athletes such as powerlifters use mouth guards in order to avoid teeth grinding, protect their teeth, reduce jaw pain and manage stress. In fact, according to a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning, wearing a mouth guard can offer better cortisol level control, which is a vital steroid for promoting stress management. So, perhaps this is why people find that biting on to something can help manage the stress of lifts, however this is just a hypothesis.
Other research suggests that biting down on something can help athletes perceive that they are stronger and less restricted during lifts. But, biting down on a chain is much more risky than a mouthguard, and it goes without saying that it could lead to tooth damage.
It seems the real reason why people are biting on their chains on TikTok is because it helps them perceive themselves to be stronger. No, there's no studies yet to support this, nor will there likely ever be. But if it helps you reach your new PR, and doesn't result in costly dental work, then have at it.
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