Strong running involves more than strong legs and pumping the arms. Proper breathing also plays a critical role, and runners who can pull the most oxygen into their system have the upper edge. Accomplishing this takes a few basic techniques and breathing exercises to maximize the runner's lung power. Runners who master breathing techniques find it easier to slip into "the zone" and efficiently run with little thinking about the process.
Instructions
Breathing Exercises and Techniques
1. Develop a rhythm for your breathing. Runners can adopt the same methods as swimmers, who take a breath every third stroke to make their bodies more efficient using lower levels of oxygen. Instead of strokes, runners can develop a breathing pattern tailored to their steps.
2. Practice taking the occasional deep breath while running. This helps the runner to relax and focus on releasing all the tension in his arms and shoulders. A big breath will also infuse the body with a shot of energizing oxygen.
3. Perform deep-breathing exercises. Draw a deep breath from the diaphragm to squeeze the stomach's internal organs, including the stomach, spleen, liver, kidney, and large and small intestines. Exhale in a tense, forceful manner to strengthen the lungs and heart, while allowing the organs to return to their normal state.
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