Don’t look past this technique!!!!

Something I program almost always for clients—no matter the type of workout—is some form of breath work.

And no matter how many times I program it, I’ll still get:

“Do I really have to do this?”“It’s just breathing?”

Yes.

And also… no, it’s not just breathing.

Most of us don’t actually know how to breathe properly. We don’t know how to use our breath to down-regulate our system, improve recovery, or unlock the benefits that come when it’s done with intention.

Here are MASSIVE benefits of deep breathing for recovery:

• Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)Training automatically puts us in a sympathetic (fight-or-flight) state. You cannot recover there. Activating the PNS brings the body back into calm, rest, and repair mode.

• Reduction in Heart RateAfter exercise, heart rate can stay elevated—especially in beginners or the untrained. Deep breathing helps bring HR down faster, returning the body to a more rested state.

• Decreased Stress HormonesExercise increases cortisol and other stress hormones. Deep breathing helps blunt that response, allowing recovery to actually happen instead of staying stuck in “go” mode.

• Eases Muscle TensionMuscles get worked hard and stay tight post-training. Deep breathing helps relax the nervous system, which in turn allows muscles to let go and recover more efficiently.

• Mental RecoveryDeep breathing has long been linked to improved mental clarity and reduced anxiety. That includes the stress of training itself—not just life stress.

• Improved CirculationProper breathing improves blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles so they can heal and adapt.

So if your trainer gives you some “foo-foo” breathing drill…take them up on it.

Learn the value of nasal breathing, box breathing, and controlled exhales.

They aren’t fluff.

They work.

Because the better—and quicker—you recover,the sooner (and harder) you can train.

Peace, love & fitness,

Matt C

#TMYK #breathing #recovery