| Lungs represent
the body’s physical conditioning. Once the lungs are functioning
at peak performance, innately the rest of the body is conditioned.
Responsible for processing air, lungs remove the oxygen to transfer
it to the blood stream for distribution throughout the body. The
volume of air the lungs may process is the initial restricting
factor that demonstrates each individual's physical condition.
Have you ever wondered why most exercises or
fitness instructors focus on your breathing? It is due in part
to proper breathing. When intakes of air are appropriately administered
during exercise, it offers a maximum load of oxygen needed for
physical endurance.
When to inhale and exhale is another commonly
posed question regarding exercise. In Pilates and yoga classes,
instructors instruct participants to inhale on the shortening
of the muscle (contraction). During the lengthening of the muscle
(expansion) physical trainers recommend exhalation. Generally,
most personal trainers recommend the bi-polar opposite breathing
pattern: on the inhalation contraction of the muscle and on
the expansion, exhalation.
It’s not recommended to hold one’s breath during
a weight or resistance training. It may result in higher blood
pressure. With an elevated blood pressure, it is more challenging
for the heart to pump blood. Inevitably, it will reduce the
blood flow to the brain.
In certain cases, individuals may find themselves
expanding breath while exercising because of the elevated heart
rate. As a result, oxygen will need to travel to the muscles
at a rapid rate. Quite common during an aerobic or cardiovascular
workout (i.e.: bike riding, jogging and roller blading). During
weight training, the heart rate will innately elevate in confluence
with breathing patterns to promote the flow of blood to the
muscles. |
