How to breathe when lifting weights

Several people have emailed recently asking the same question. So I decided to post the latest email I received along with the answer. Here it is...

Question from Sandra in Washington, DC:

Hi. Could you please tell me the proper way to breathe when I'm lifting weights? I end up holding my breath a lot of the time because I'm not sure when to inhale and when to exhale. Thanks for your help!

Answer:

First of all, never hold your breath when you're lifting weights or doing any form of exercise! This can be more than a little dangerous for several reasons, not the least of which is the fact that you could pass out in the middle of a set. (Note: Sometimes powerlifters and bodybuilders do hold their breath during a very heavy set - for a few seconds - but it's not something the average weightlifter should try.)

The best way to breath (usually) is to exhale during the contraction of the muscle you're working. That's the part of the exercise that occurs when you're working against gravity (or whatever is providing the resistance). Most people will do this naturally. If you're having problems it may be because you're focusing too much attention on your breathe. Try to focus on something else, like the feeling of your muscles contracting and stretching, and you'll probably begin to breath normally and 'correctly.'


Related links:

Weightlifting, breathing, and blood pressure

Weight training: Are you using good technique?