Evidence shows most of us will give up on our New Year’s fitness resolutions by June. But, according to Professor Samuele Marcora, a University of Kent endurance expert, drinking coffee could help those of us who have a hard time sticking to an exercise routine. In a paper published in the scientific journal Sports Medicine, Marcora explained that people tend to be inactive because sedentary activities which require zero effort, like watching TV, are more attractive than exercise, which, in comparison, appears to require tremendous amounts of effort. This perception of effort, or the anticipation of physical exertion, discourages many otherwise motivated people from participating in exercise. Marcora believes that caffeine could reduce this perception of effort, making exercise more attractive. He cites research that links relatively low doses of caffeine with a variety of positive fitness-related outcomes, including:

• Reduced muscle pain caused by exercise.
• Boosted pleasure and enjoyment during exercise.

It’s important to note that much of the research that explores this relationship involves people who are already physically active—more research is needed to understand coffee’s effect on people who are just beginning their fitness journey. But, if you’re already a coffee drinker, it might not hurt to down a cup before your next workout to see if it helps you go the distance.

Source: Sports Medicine