[The Chinese runners' revolution]

Scientists are discussing possible explanations of the fantastic improvement in physical performance achieved by Chinese female runners in 1993. Some untraditional procedure must have been used in addition to intense training. The author points out that a study conducted almost a decade ago, and reported in Acupuncture and Electro-Therapeutics Research (1984; 9: 165-80), showed a marked increase in physical performance following low-frequency (2 Hz) transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in athletes competing in swimming, running and cycling events. This study was known to the Chinese, and TENS could be one of the methods used. Neither this method nor acupuncture are regarded as doping, since at present it is impossible to demonstrate that the athletes have received such treatment.