23/02/2026
"Don't forget to breathe!"
Does that sound familiar? When we train, we always think about our reps, our form, how heavy are we lifting etc. One very important aspect we overlook is our breathing. How we breathe during exercise can have a huge effect on our results. By breathing effectively, we can directly influence performance, endurance, and strength. Subpar breathing, such as shallow or rapid breathing leads to reduced oxygen delivery, premature fatigue and reduced effort.
Here are some tips on how to improve your breathing during exercise ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Aerobic (Running/cycling) : Rhythmic, synchronized breathing (e.g., inhale 2 steps, exhale 2 steps) prevents fatigue and optimizes oxygen uptake.
Anaerobic (Weightlifting) : Inhale during the easier (eccentric) phase and exhale during the hardest (concentric) phase to manage blood pressure. When we lift really heavy, we may also have to hold our breath in order to brace the core (Valsalva manoeuvre).
There's also breathing for relaxation, something commonly practised in yoga! .and.move runs yoga classes every Mon, Wed and Fri. If you would like to practise mindful breathing, sign up for a class!
Hope this post reminds you of the importance of breathing mechanics. Try incorporating proper breathing techniques to feel stronger and perform better in your workouts!
