Can a placebo make you cycle faster?

[Paul H]

Horizon 9pm tonight

[url]http://www.bbc.co.uk...rammes/p01s6f3f[/url]

[DavidKennett]

Placebo oxygen. Marginal gains

[Phil H]

Watched it. Well presented but I don't think it told me anything that I didn't already know. I read a bit of Ben Goldacre and the like which has a load on the placebo effect (cough - alternative medicine - cough). The power of it is always fascinating though.

I don't think there's anyone who's done any sort of competitive sport (even if you count trying to beat a poor PB on a TT) would deny the power of the mind. Actually particularly in TTs.

The effect I find interesting is the "nocebo" effect. An example: when they run a double-blind study on a drug, all the participants are told of the potential side-effects of the real drug. Some people get the side-effects even though they're taking the placebo.

I reckon buying shiny new kit is mostly a placebo thing.

[Marek]

Guys, I have just found this great new drink which makes you ride faster and stronger with every sip, it is awesome stuff. I am afraid it is in very short supply at the moment and therefore the price is a bit silly, but I tell you this stuff really works. The drink has been tested and is legal which I am really surprised about. I will bring along a supply to the club race in a couple of weeks, you will only need a little bit added to whatever you have in your water bottles as it is very powerful so I should be able to share it amongst most of the riders. If all the 17s want some then I reckon they will kicking the butts of the training group. It is £53.50 for a swigs worth normally, but as special club deal I will let you guys have a swig for £50 each. You guys are going to fly.

Cheers

Marek.....

[Paul H]

and this bloke looks after our pensions - explains a lot

[Rogan]

I'm way up for this Marek! Put me down for a few….
Cheers

[Phil H]

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