Here’s how to breathe when running, to make sure your runs are productive and comfortable. When ever I take a session at the beginning of a programme, I use the sound track “We will rock you” listen to the rhythm and associate it to two breaths in, one breath out, it really works. Breathing is an art and everyone will eventually find what is comfortable for them. Once you get this right with the coordination of legs, arms and posture, it’s a case of building on top of each session you run.
Breathe from your belly.
The key for how to breathe when running is deep belly breathing. Taking deep breaths from your belly while you’re running will allow you take in more oxygen, and also help you avoid from getting stitches. Deep belly breathing also helps reduce anxiety, so you’ll feel more relaxed as you’re running.
Keep it to a “conversational pace.”
As a beginner try to run at a pace which you can breathe easily. Use the “talk test” to figure out if your pace is appropriate. You should be able to speak in full sentences, without gasping for air. Slow down or walk if you’re running out of breath.
What If I Feel Out of Breath When Running?
It’s common for beginner runners to feel out of breath when running. If breathing is difficult and you feel that you can’t catch your breath when running, you’re probably running too fast. Slow your pace so that you don’t have that out-of-breath feeling. In some cases, you may have to slow to a walk or a jog on the spot to catch your breath. As you make running consistent and build your endurance, you will be able to increase your pace and that out of breath feeling will disappear.