Question :

How should I breathe while running?

« I’ve heard that I need to breathe in through my nose and out of my mouth when I run. Is it correct? »

Answer :

No, it’s wrong. You should let air in through your mouth and nose at the same time while running. Your muscles need oxygen to function and your nose cannot provide the necessary air.

Make sure you breathe more with your diaphragm, or stomach because only breathing from your chest is not deep enough. Breathing deeply with your stomach allows you to get more air, which will also help prevent cramps.

Exhale with your mouth and focus on exhaling completely, which will remove more carbon dioxide from your body and help inhale more deeply.

 

Here are some other tips to help you breathe while running:

 

  • Try to take three steps for each inspiration, and two steps for each exhalation.

  • For beginners, try to run at an easy pace. Take the “speech test” in order to know if your pace is right. You should be able to make complete sentences without being out of breath.

  • If you feel short of breath, try to run faster for a minute. When you return to the pace at which you were breathless, you will no longer be…

  • Slow down or walk if you really run out of air. If you relax and slow down, the breathing problems go away on their own. Don’t think about it too much.

This post is also available in: Français (French)