Written by: Maternity Sports Academy. Commercial partnership.
Breathing is much more than just the flow of air in and out. It is a whole-body function that has a direct effect:
- For support and stability of the central torso
- For power output in heavy lifting
- Movement control and coordination
- For nervous recovery
- Stress management and concentration
However, few people pay conscious attention to their breathing when exercising - it's automatic, isn't it?
The most common breathing mistakes in the gym
If you can identify yourself from the following, you are not alone:
- Holding your breath throughout the movement (especially common in abdominal movements)
- Shallow breathing - only at the top of the chest
- Irregular breathing that does not support the rhythm of the movement phases
- Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose
- Constant tensing of the abdominal muscles, which prevents diaphragmatic breathing
These mistakes not only reduce the effectiveness of your training, but can also increase the risk of injury and slow recovery.
The link between breathing and core strength
The basis of power production is a stable core. When breathing works properly, it activates the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles in a natural way, creating a "living corset" around the entire midsection.
A very functional midsection:
- Protects the spine during heavy lifting
- Improves power transfer between feet and hands
- Improves the purity and range of motion of movements
- Create an aesthetically pleasing and streamlined appearance
But how to develop this link effectively?
Hypopressive technique - a revolution in breathing and the mid-body
This question is answered by the hypopressive technique. This method, originally developed for postnatal rehabilitation of women, has proven to be an effective tool for any fitness enthusiast who wants to develop a deep connection between the breath and the core.
The Hypopressive technique combines:
- Conscious breathing technique
- Precise postures that activate the deep muscles
- Breath holding (apnea) in controlled form
- Activation of the diaphragm and pelvic floor interaction
The name of the technique comes from the word "hypopressive". During the exercises, negative pressure is consciously created in the abdominal cavity, which "sucks" the stomach inwards, activating the deep muscles in a way that traditional abdominal muscle movements cannot.
The benefits of Hypopressive for the exerciser
Why should every gym-goer get to know the hypopressive technique?
- More effective control of the mid-torso - especially activating deep, hard-to-reach muscles
- Improved posture and body alignment - immediately visible in the purity of movements
- Advanced breathing techniques - what improves breathing capacity
- Faster recovery - thanks to more efficient breathing
- Healthier visceral position - reduces abdominal distension and supports visceral function
- Stronger pelvic floor - what's important for both women and men
When done with the right technique, hypopressive exercises are safe, effective and time-saving - even 10-20 minutes of regular exercise will produce visible results.
Discover a new dimension to your workout with the hypopressive technique
If you want to take your gym workout to the next level, learn an effective breathing technique and strengthen your core from the inside out, the hypopressive technique is the perfect tool for you. Hypopressive is a form of strength training that will help you breathe more efficiently and get more out of all your movements - thanks to your improved breathing!
The Academy of Maternal Exercise has put together a comprehensive online course to teach you:
- Basics of the Hypopressive Technique
- Controlled use of breathing techniques and apnea
- Intensified breathing exercises
- Five exercises at different levels from beginner to advanced
- Body care tips that boost results
The workouts are suitable for everyone, regardless of fitness level - the only requirement is an interest in developing the connection between your body and your breath. Read more about the workouts and sign up for the online course here.
Breathe better, train more efficiently, achieve more!