Breathing During Strength Training: A Novice Perspective

Ever feel lightheaded consistently after a particular, intense strength exercise? I have, but never to the point of being wobbly on my feet. It might be that my breathing isn’t optimal and can be improved, which is what I’m doing.

After research which can be found in the last blog, and I am performing a modified method of holding breath through the entire rep and breathing only stationary at the top. While on the Bulgarian split squat, I am stationary at about 25-35 degrees at the top, and under tension. I start moving down while inhaling on the first second of the rep so it cheats a little with some breathing during movement, but this is no weight so far. Breathing with high weight reduces stability in the core, it is said. This reduction in stability can increase chance of injury in certain exercises, such as squats or other overhead weight exercises.

I no longer feel lightheaded! Also, I did 10 reps, the most so far. These reps are 8 seconds, so very, very slow. That includes 1 second at the top.

I have no doubt I am pushing myself at least near my maximum potential during overload: The muscle has little energy and walking is a chore after words. I’m no expert but from what little I have experienced, squats seem to be the most intense exercise.

I hope you feel invigorated after exercises and already use or will consider a breathing technique if you want to improve performance.