Proper breathing techniques are often overlooked during exercise, but they play a vital role in optimizing performance and safety. Breathing effectively helps to maintain oxygen flow to your muscles, which is essential for endurance and strength. It also aids in regulating your heart rate, ensuring that your body functions efficiently during strenuous activity. For strength training, the general rule of thumb is to exhale during the exertion phase, such as when you lift or push the weight, and inhale during the relaxation phase, when you lower the weight or return to the starting position. This method ensures a steady oxygen supply and enhances overall performance.
Exhaling during the exertion phase has an important physiological purpose. It helps engage your core muscles, providing stability to your spine and protecting it from injury. When you lift heavy weights or exert significant force, holding your breath can create internal pressure, but exhaling helps release this pressure in a controlled manne