Smelling Salts for Power: A Window into Current Leg Training Strategies Smelling salts have a long history of association with intense physical performance, particularly among strength trainers.
Their use dates back to the early 20th century when weightlifters and strongmen employed them to enhance their lifting abilities by inhaling ammonia vapors, which stimulated their nervous system and boosted muscular power.
The physiological effects of smelling salts involve the rapid diffusion of certain compounds into the bloodstream through inhalation.