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Techniques for Facilitating Easier Breathing During Running, Recommended by a Running Coach

Struggling for breath during runs? Here are tried-and-true suggestions from experienced fitness professionals

Techniques for enhancing breath control during running, as recommended by a running coach
Techniques for enhancing breath control during running, as recommended by a running coach

In the world of running, maintaining control over your breath is crucial for endurance and performance. Katelyn Tocci, an ultramarathon coach and managing editor for Marathon Handbook, offers valuable insights into running form and pacing strategies. Here, we'll explore some tips from Katelyn Tocci and other experts on how to improve breath control during running.

Firstly, adapting your walking pace to suit your fitness level is essential. This approach allows you to build up your aerobic base, improving your ability to run for longer distances.

When following a run-walk-run program, taking walking breaks can be beneficial. These breaks help control breath, especially for beginners, as they provide a moment of recovery. The run segment may cause you to get out of breath, but the recovery walk helps catch up.

Maintaining good posture is another key factor in controlling breath while running. By keeping your shoulders back and chest proud, you can improve oxygen intake during your run. Slouching and hunching over can compress the lungs and diaphragm, making it difficult to take in deep breaths.

Visualizing oxygen flowing into the body with each inhalation can also help maintain deep breathing while running, as suggested by Katelyn Tocci. Deep breathing can help control breath and increase stamina during running.

For those seeking a comprehensive guide on perfecting running form, there's a guide available that covers various aspects, including breath control.

In addition to Katelyn Tocci's tips, general recommendations for controlling breath during running include starting with a warm-up to gradually increase heart rate and breathing, using rhythmic breathing patterns aligned with your steps to improve efficiency, and focusing on deep, diaphragmatic breathing rather than shallow chest breaths.

Lastly, don't forget to subscribe to the Fit&Well Newsletter for achievable workout ideas, health tips, and wellbeing advice in your inbox. Happy running!

[1] Source for general breathing control tips: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/running/art-20048389 [2] Source for Katelyn Tocci's background and areas of expertise: https://marathonhandbook.com/about/

Adopting these strategies will not only enhance your breath control during running but also promote overall cardio fitness and health-and-wellness. To further deepen your understanding of respiratory techniques, you may find science-backed resources through leading fitness-and-exercise authorities. For instance, exploring the Mayo Clinic's extensive guide on running techniques could provide valuable insights on breath control and other aspects of running form.

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