Why Does Breathing Rate Increase with Exercise?
Breathing is a necessary human function, but the breathing rate generally increases when a patient is physically activity. Understanding why this happens---and help your body during exercise---is essential in receiving a healthy workout and a healthy body.
Features
When you exercise, much of the body's blood rushes to the muscles to help fuel the physical activity. This surging of blood often results in a need for more oxygen in the blood than is present, and thus the body's breathing rate increases. Breathing in through the nose may be harder for patients when they are exercising, so if necessary, patients should breathe through the mouth, as this ensures a greater oxygen flow.
Function
Breathing is essential because it draws in oxygen and helps to dispel carbon dioxide. When a person is exercising, her body needs additional oxygen, and thus the breathing rate increases. Acknowledging your body's needs, and breathing appropriately to accommodate them, is necessary in igniting the burning of fat and having a healthy workout.
Significance
Breathing is necessary during exercise because it ensures that the body is receiving the necessary amount of oxygen to power the muscles and brain. If a patient does not get enough air while exercising, he may develop side stitches because the body is robbed of the necessary amount of oxygen it needs. Generally, the more strenuous the activity, the more oxygen is needed to move the patient's muscles efficiently. Patients are advised to breathe with a regular rhythm and constant pace.
Breathing During Exercise
Because humans breathe more when they are exercising, it is important to recognize the most efficient and comfortable ways to breathe. Most physical fitness experts advise patients to breathe out during the effort phase of exercise. For example, if a patient is doing an abdominal crunch, the patient should breathe out as she lifts the trunk. But most essential when exercising is simply to breathe, no matter what the pattern.
Possibility of Too Much Breathing?
If a patient breathes too much, he may hyperventilate, but generally, this does not occur during exercise. When walking or running, patients are advised to breathe out on every fourth step, to maintain a safe and health pattern. In more strenuous activities, including running, jogging and weight-lifting, patients may need to breathe more frequently to ensure the proper amount of oxygen and blood circulation.
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