Breathwork for Performance & Stress Reduction

Breathing techniques, like diaphragmatic breathing, can help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and improve focus and power during physical activity. 

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, can significantly enhance running performance in several ways.

1. Increased Oxygen Intake: By engaging the diaphragm, you can take deeper breaths, allowing more air into the lungs and increasing the oxygen supply to the muscles, which is crucial during running.

2. Improved Endurance: With better oxygen delivery, your muscles can perform more efficiently, helping to improve overall endurance and stamina during longer runs.

3. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Diaphragmatic breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can enhance focus and mental clarity while running.

4. Enhanced Core Stability: This type of breathing engages the core muscles, providing better stability and support for your body during the repetitive motion of running.

5. Better Posture: Proper breathing can help maintain better posture, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for a more efficient running form.

Incorporating diaphragmatic breathing into your running routine can lead to improved performance and a more enjoyable running experience.

If you were to brace the body while running, it could lead to tension and restrict natural movement, which may negatively impact performance and comfort. Here are a few reasons excessive bracing is discouraged:

1. Reduced Mobility: Bracing can limit the range of motion in your joints and muscles, making it harder to maintain an efficient running form.

2. Increased Fatigue: Tensing up your body requires more energy, which can lead to quicker fatigue during longer runs. Relaxed muscles use energy more efficiently.

3. Poor Breathing: When you brace your core and upper body, it can restrict your diaphragm's movement, leading to shallow breathing and reduced oxygen intake.

4. Injury Risk: Excessive tension in the body can lead to imbalances and increase the risk of injuries, as it may cause improper alignment or overuse of certain muscle groups.

5. Mental Stress: Bracing can create unnecessary mental stress and anxiety, making your running experience less enjoyable.

Instead, it's beneficial to find a balance between stability and relaxation, allowing for a more fluid and natural running motion. Focus on engaging your core gently while allowing other parts of your body to move freely.