5 Surprising Breathing Mistakes 93% of All Runners Make (Even the Pro Runners!)

Breathing is more than just a necessity; it's a crucial element of running performance that can significantly impact your endurance and speed.

Whether you're a novice or a seasoned marathoner, understanding and correcting common breathing mistakes can elevate your running game to new heights.

Drawing from scientific research and insights from elite runners, here are five surprising breathing mistakes that a staggering 93% of all runners, including professionals, often make:

1. Shallow Breathing: Many runners fail to utilize their full lung capacity, opting for quick, shallow breaths instead. This limits oxygen intake and can lead to premature fatigue during long runs.

2. Inconsistent Breathing Patterns: Running at a steady pace requires a consistent breathing rhythm. Mixing up your inhales and exhales can disrupt your stride and make it harder to maintain endurance.

3. Holding Your Breath: It's common to unintentionally hold your breath during moments of exertion, such as sprinting or tackling a hill. This deprives your muscles of oxygen and can hinder performance.

4. Mouth Breathing Exclusively: While mouth breathing can be necessary during intense workouts to increase oxygen intake, relying solely on mouth breathing may lead to dehydration and dry mouth.

5. Ignoring Diaphragmatic Breathing: Many runners overlook the importance of engaging the diaphragm for deep, efficient breaths. Instead, they rely on shallow chest breathing, which limits oxygen exchange and increases the risk of side stitches.

Research confirms that adopting proper breathing techniques can enhance running performance by optimizing oxygen delivery and reducing the metabolic cost of running.

Dr. Emma Hayes emphasizes, "Correct breathing techniques not only improve endurance but also help runners maintain a steady pace throughout their run."

Are you curious to know if your breathing is hampering your results?

Take our free assessment to gain valuable insights and discover personalized strategies to make your breath work for you!