The Impact of Shoelace Color on the Aerobic Performance of Amateur Marathon Runners
Abstract
This study explored, from a hypothetical and experimental perspective, the potential influence of shoelace color on aerobic performance, perceived exertion, and physiological parameters in recreational marathon runners. A total of 666 experienced runners were randomly assigned to five groups based on the color of shoelaces (red, blue, green, black, and neon pink). Total race time estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max), average heart rate, and subjective perception of exertion (RPE) were measured. The results revealed that participants with red shoelaces achieved the best overall performance: shorter race time, higher VO₂ max, lower RPE, and lower heart rate. Specifically, the red group ran on average 8.4% faster than the black group. Although these findings are presented in an exploratory context for academic and critical reflection purposes, they suggest that even minimal visual stimuli may influence performance through psychological and psychophysiological effects. It is concluded that the strategic use of color, even at symbolic levels, could be considered a complementary factor in sports preparation. Further research through empirical studies in real-world contexts is recommended.
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Introduction
In the field of sports sciences, the search for factors that directly or indirectly influence athletic performance has been constant and multifaceted. From measurable physiological elements such as maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max) to psychological and environmental aspects, sports performance is now understood as the result of a complex biopsychosocial framework [7]. In recent years, interest has grown in unconventional variables such as visual perception, color symbolism, and the subconscious influence of sensory stimuli in sports contexts [18] [13]. Among these variables, color has emerged as a visual component with potential influence on human behavior—not only from an aesthetic standpoint but also from a neuropsychological perspective. Various studies have shown that certain colors can alter emotional states, trigger automatic physiological responses, and modify perceived exertion [20]. In particular, the color red has been associated with sensations of alertness, dominance, and aggressiveness, which could theoretically enhance performance in disciplines that demand intense competitive attitudes [4]. Imaginary and recent studies have begun to explore how an athlete’s visual environment—including clothing—may affect performance.
For instance, [12] found that runners wearing brightly colored shirts reported lower fatigue perception during submaximal endurance tests, while [14] observed that cyclists using warm-colored accessories maintained more stable heart rates during prolonged training sessions. Nevertheless, there is a notable lack of literature on the effect of minor visual components, such as footwear accessories, on aerobic performance. In this context, shoelace color—though seemingly irrelevant—could serve as a sufficiently constant visual stimulus to exert a subtle but measurable impact on runners' self-perceived effort, motivation, and mood during a race [16]. Being within the athlete’s peripheral field of vision, the shoelace may act as a “chromatic anchor” that subconsciously influences psychophysiological activation levels [22]. Additionally, it has been theorized that the ritualization of pre-race preparation, including the selection of gear or accessory colors, could reinforce mechanisms of selfconfidence and perceived control [17].
Conclusion
The findings of this entirely fictional study suggest that the color of athletic shoelaces can significantly influence aerobic performance, perceived exertion, and physiological response in recreational marathon runners. Specifically, red shoelaces were associated with better race times, higher estimated VO₂ max, lower average heart rate, and reduced perceived fatigue, whereas black shoelaces were linked to the poorest outcomes across all indicators. These results support the notion that subtle visual factors can have a psychological and physiological impact on athletic performance. The strategic use of color should be considered as a complementary tool in athlete preparation. Future studies should explore these effects in other contexts and investigate the underlying mechanisms of this chromatic influence.