By Michelle Opperman

Breathing is an unconscious act, something our bodies do automatically. Yet, when it comes to fitness, the way we breathe can significantly impact our performance, endurance, and overall health. Functional breathing, a concept gaining traction in the fitness world, focuses on optimizing breathing patterns to enhance physical performance and well-being. Functional breathing is essential for overall well-being, impacting cardiovascular health, efficient oxygenation, and stress management. It plays a crucial role in optimizing physical performance by enhancing endurance and coordination. Beyond physiological benefits, mindful breathing techniques rooted in functional breathing promote emotional regulation and cognitive clarity.

What is Functional Breathing? Functional breathing involves using the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles efficiently to ensure optimal oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal. It’s more than just the act of inhaling and exhaling; it’s about breathing in a way that supports the body’s movements and activities.

Components of Functional Breathing:

•       Nasal Breathing: Filters, humidifies, and warms the air before it reaches the lungs, optimizing oxygen absorption.
•       Diaphragmatic Breathing: Engages the diaphragm to take deep breaths, allowing for maximum air intake.
•       Rhythmic Breathing: Coordinates breath with movement, enhancing efficiency and performance.

Impact on Fitness:

•       Improved Oxygenation: Maximizes oxygen delivery to muscles, enhancing endurance and reducing fatigue during workouts.
•       Enhanced Core Activation: Strengthens core muscles, improving stability and reducing the risk of injury.
•       Stress Reduction: Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and mental well-being.
•       Increased Mind-Body Connection: Cultivates awareness, enabling better control during exercises.

Incorporating Functional Breathing into Fitness Routine: There are numerous mindful practices that can yield the benefits of focused breathing. These include classes such as Yoga, Pilates, or Myobility, which emphasize breath control and mindfulness. Engaging in these practices can significantly contribute to a deeper understanding of breathing techniques. While classes offer substantial benefits, dedicating just a few minutes each day can also be effective. Embracing functional breathing as a daily practice promotes a holistic approach to health, encompassing both physical vitality and mental well-being. Here are different breathing techniques that can be integrated into workouts, warm-ups, or cooldowns to improve lung capacity and control. It’s important to note that even short sessions can produce significant results.

Box Breathing Technique: Box breathing induces relaxation by countering the stress response. Deepening breath slows the heartbeat, relaxes muscles, and stabilizes or reduces blood pressure. 1. Inhale for a slow count of 4, feeling the air fill your lungs. 2. Hold your breath for 4 seconds. 3. Exhale slowly for 4 seconds. 4. Hold your breath out for 4 seconds. 5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 until feeling centered.

Coherence Breath Technique: Coherent breathing offers numerous benefits, including activating the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress, improving mood, enhancing cardiovascular wellness and HRV, reducing anxiety, and promoting overall health. 1. Inhale deeply into your belly for 5 seconds. 2. Exhale for another 5 seconds. 3. Repeat for three to five minutes.

Focus Breathing Technique: During strength training or cardio workouts, pay attention to breathing patterns. Aim for a rhythmic and deep breathing technique that complements your movements.

Conclusion: Functional breathing is often overlooked but essential for fitness. Mastering breath control and optimizing patterns can yield significant benefits: improved endurance, stress reduction, and enhanced performance. Incorporating mindful breathing into workouts can transform both physical and mental well-being. Remember, while mastering functional breathing requires practice, the rewards for fitness and holistic wellness are invaluable. You can also check out Unplugged: Breath on Crunch + for more info and application.

Michelle Opperman is a Group Fitness Regional Director with Crunch Fitness.

Crunch’s group fitness classes promote a culture of fun with no judgments. It’s an environment for all types of individuals with various goals. Find a Crunch gym near you to try our free trial membership, or join Crunch now. Your goals are made to be crushed. With Crunch, you’ll have the tools, resources, and support to make it happen.