Rio 2016: What are the red spots on athletes’ bodies

Michael Phelps to Alexander Naddour, all flaunted their red circles.

Rio de Janeiro:

Four days into the Olympics, red spots were seen on athletes’ bodies. If US swimmer Michael Phelps – who won gold – looked like he fought a war, gymnast Alexander Naddour appeared like he escaped a snake bite.

Since the Olympics is being held in Brazil, known for Zika virus, the initial photographs of the athletes did raise eyebrows before experts threw their hat in the ring.

The uncanny blood circle is due to cupping, which is like a suction pump. A cup is attached on the skin of the athletes which increases blood flow. It also repairs a sportsman’s sore muscles.

Cupping is an old school method. The cups are made of clay, metal or bamboo. When removed, it leaves a hickey.

This looks like a good solution if an athlete needs blood flow in the athletic muscles.

The Olympians are using it to their full advantage.

(This story originally appeared on Deccan Chronicle)