Do You Breathe?
Do you???
Almost on a daily basis, I need to remind my Athletes and Fighters to breathe. Sound funny? It might, if you aren’t exerting yourself to the nth degree. If you are giving 100% to your squats or burpees? How about if your training partner is putting the body triangle on you? What about in the middle of a 5 minute round of knees on the bag?
For many people, breathing seems to be the hardest part of exercise to grasp. While proper breathing is very important, it doesn’t have to be complicated or confusing. The most important thing to remember when it comes to breathing is DON’T hold your breath. Holding your breath can lead to elevated blood pressure during your workout routine, which can result in dizziness or even fainting.
Here’s an easy way to make sure you’re breathing correctly while you workout…
Exhale on exertion. That means breathe out while you’re lifting the weight and breathe in while you lower the weight under control. For example, if you’re performing the kettlebell swing, you should exhale as you lift the weight upwards above you and open your hips, then inhale as you lower it back down.
Another example is that of striking. You should exhale as your strike and inhale upon covering. If you are being hit, exhale forcefully upon impact.
By following these simple breathing techniques, you’ll not only perform each exercise more effectively, you’ll also be more comfortable while you’re working out. And that makes for a more enjoyable fitness experience, which will ultimately lead to better, faster results.
Until next time, breathe!
