Swimmer Hoe Yean turns to beetroot juice to boost endurance

PETALING JAYA: Can the power of beetroot fuel swimmer Khiew Hoe Yean to make a big splash for Malaysia in the Commonwealth Games swimming competition?

Hoe Yean revealed on social media recently that he has been taking concentrated beetroot juice to help him improve his sports performance level.

And the 23-year-old will be hoping for the added boost when he swims his first individual race – the 400m freestyle – in Glasgow today.

“I take beetroot juice three to five days before a competition.

“I take 35ml per serving, mix with water, about two to three hours before each session and repeat on competition day,” said Hoe Yean.

The power of the beetroot has been harnessed by elite swimmers in recent times due to it being a rich source of antioxidants and high in nitrate levels.

By drinking beetroot juice, nitric oxide levels in the body are raised, which can increase blood flow, improve lung function and strengthen muscle contraction.

The increased nitric oxide levels in your body help to open up blood vessels, which increases blood flow and feeds your working muscles with more oxygen.

He added that it had been a game-changer in the last few years since he took this route.

“I’ve noticed a significant difference in my heart’s performance during the intense training sessions,” he said.

“My heart rate doesn’t skyrocket like it used to, and even if it does, I don’t feel as fatigued.

“This means I can push harder and longer without feeling worn out.

“It’s like my aerobic system got a major upgrade.”

“Swimming is one of the most demanding cardio sports there is. Every breath is rationed. Every stroke is oxygen management.

“The back half of the race is where championships are won or lost and that is where nitric oxide (from the beetroot) matters most.

The multiple SEA Games winner Hoe Yean hopes to finish among the top eight fastest swimmers in the morning heats to give him a place in the final.

Hoe Yean has been placed in heat three along with Paris Olympics silver medallist Elijah Winnington of Australia and Daniel Wiffen of Northern Ireland, who is the reigning Olympic champion for 800m freestyle.