Faint-Proof Yourself: The Muscle Tension Trick

Fear of fainting is the #1 reason people don't return to donate. But science has a hack for that: Applied Muscle Tension (AMT).

Why We Faint

Fainting (syncope) happens when blood pressure drops quickly, reducing blood flow to the brain. This can be triggered by seeing a needle or just the volume loss.

The Solution

While sitting in the donation chair, do this repeatedly:

1. Cross your legs at the ankles.
2. Squeeze your thighs and buttock muscles hard for 5 seconds.
3. Relax for 5 seconds.
4. Repeat throughout the donation.

This pumps blood from your legs back to your heart and brain, keeping your BP stable. It reduces fainting risk by over 60%!