Remember to breathe

Written By Zach Reisch

The only time I’ve seen people forget to breathe is during strength training.

This doesn’t seem natural, but it is.

Holding your breath helps stabilize the core muscles, which is why professional weightlifters do it.

But we don’t recommend this technique because it can lead to long-term health issues.

Instead of holding your breath, try breathing intentionally when you strength train.

You can focus on both how you breathe and when you breathe.

Breathing through your whole torso, not just your chest or stomach.

(It’s like your torso is a soda can, and the whole can is expanding.)

And exhaling during the most difficult part of the exercise.

(Exhaling is a safer way to help your muscles engage than holding your breath.)

Try shifting your focus to breathing next time you strength train!

Zach Reisch

Zach co-owns Rozzie Fitness with his wife, Lianna. He became a personal trainer in 2023 and is inspired every day by Rozzie Fitness’s inclusive and supportive environment. As someone who finds many gyms intimidating, Zach prioritizes fostering a comfortable experience for all Rozzie Fitness members. In his spare time, Zach performs with ComedySportz Boston (an improv show at the Rozzie Square Theater in Roslindale) and writes short speculative fiction stories.

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