The tension felt by fans when a Dodgers pitcher faces off against a Blue Jays batter triggers real physiological responses akin to stress spikes, according to medical experts who have experienced the heart-pounding effects firsthand.
Referred to as “fanxiety” by one cardiologist, this phenomenon is evident in short social media videos capturing fans pacing, throwing soft objects at screens, or anxiously reacting to critical moments in various sports like baseball, football, hockey, and soccer.
When fans watch their favorite team in action, their senses relay information to the brain, preparing the body for emotional reactions due to their vested interest, explained Greg Wells, a scientist specializing in exercise physiology at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.
Wells, who teaches techniques for maintaining composure under pressure, confessed to engaging in animated behaviors like throwing objects, yelling, and expressing distress while watching games. He acknowledged the thrill of such intense moments.
Experiencing joy or emotional pain based on the outcome of a play is tied to the release of endorphins in the body and brain, Wells elaborated. In situations where the result is uncertain, such as a prolonged pitcher-batter showdown, spectators may feel anxious as their heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure elevate in anticipation of the unknown.
The release of hormones like adrenaline in response to the perceived stress of a game can trigger physiological reactions, with cortisol and adrenaline preparing the body for action as if facing a genuine threat, stated Wells.
When feeling threatened, individuals may exhibit physical responses such as increased blood pressure, heightened alertness, sweating, trembling, and the release of glucose for a burst of energy, driven by cortisol.
Studies suggest that spectators during high-stakes games undergo changes in physiological responses, reflecting the impact of intense sports viewing on the body.
Dr. Jacob Udell, a cardiologist at Women’s College Hospital and Toronto General Hospital, likened watching sports at home to a moderate workout due to the increased heart rate, while attending live events equals strenuous physical exertion.
Udell emphasized that while most people’s elevated heart rates during games are harmless, individuals with heart conditions or risk factors should adhere to prescribed medications to manage potential stress-induced complications.
For those susceptible to extreme responses during intense sports events, prompt medical attention is advised if symptoms like chest pain or palpitations occur.
To mitigate cardiovascular strain during stressful situations, Udell recommended classic coping strategies such as box breathing and visualization of calming environments, emphasizing the importance of pacing oneself and enjoying the experience like a marathon.