07/09/2026
One of the most common mistakes during exercise is holding your breath. While it may seem harmless, breath-holding (known as the Valsalva maneuver) can cause unnecessary spikes in blood pressure, increase strain on your body, and reduce your ability to perform movements efficiently.
Instead, focus on engaging your core while continuing to breathe. Proper abdominal bracing doesn't mean holding your breath—it means activating your core muscles while maintaining steady, controlled breathing throughout each exercise!
✅ Inhale through your nose to encourage diaphragmatic breathing, improve lung expansion, and prepare for movement.
✅ Exhale through your mouth during the effort to help stabilize your core, generate force, and maintain proper control.
Coordinating your breathing with movement improves performance, enhances stability, and helps your muscles receive the oxygen they need to keep working efficiently.
At Caruso Physical Therapy & Nutrition, we emphasize proper breathing mechanics with every exercise because the way you breathe is just as important as the movement itself!
