The Old Belief: Abstinence Builds Focus

In many competitive sports, especially high-pressure ones like boxing, martial arts, or power sports, there’s a long-standing belief that athletes should abstain from sexual activity before a big match. For example:

- Many boxers and fighters historically avoided sex for weeks before contests, believing it boosts aggression or conserves energy.

- Some athletes believe sex before a match may impair performance by affecting focus, rest, or hormonal readiness.

The logic: sex might tire you out, distract you, or reduce your drive and adrenaline — all considered detrimental when you’re about to fight or compete physically.

 

 

 

What Science Actually Says

When we turn to research, the picture is less clear and far less rigid:

- A 2016 review found no robust scientific evidence that sexual activity the night before competition negatively impacts performance.

- Some researchers suggest sexual activity might have a beneficial psychological effect — reducing stress, improving mood, or enhancing hormonal responses like testosterone.

- Timing matters: sexual activity very shortly before competition (just hours) might interfere, but if it happens the night before and doesn’t interfere with sleep or routine, it’s unlikely to harm.

Why This Might Be Different for Chess

Chess isn’t like sprinting or boxing. The primary “battle” is cognitive:

- Mental fatigue: Risk comes from mental, not physical, exhaustion. Disrupted sleep, emotional swings, or overstimulation can hurt focus.

- Routine & ritual: Many players rely on strict pre-game routines; anything that disrupts these routines could reduce performance.

- Adrenaline vs. calm: High-stakes chess often favors a calm mind over adrenaline spikes.

- Individual variability: Some players relax with sexual activity; others become distracted.

Some players believe abstaining from sex before a match sharpens focus, saving every ounce of energy for the war on the board

 

What Experts Suggest

- Stick to what works for you — if abstinence helps focus, maintain it.

- If sex relaxes you and improves sleep, it could be beneficial.

- Avoid sexual activity immediately before the game.

- Most importantly: consistency and routine are key.

There’s no universal rule. The real question is how your mind reacts, how your routine holds up, and whether the activity supports or undermines the mental clarity chess demands. Sleep, preparation, mindset, and personal rituals are far more important than adhering to superstition.

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