Breathing and Boxing

Whether you are new to boxing or returning after a hiatus, you might notice how quickly you get tired working out, hitting the heavy bag or working on the mitts. The main reason is that GWX sessions are a great exercise designed to have you train like an athlete.

Another reason is that contenders haven’t yet mastered their breathing technique. Like proper form, footwork, defense and combinations – learning to breathe is one of the most important thins to perfect. 

Slow down

The most important thing to remember about breathing techniques while boxing is to breathe slowly. Controlling your breath will increase your intensity during your workouts. Beginning contenders will often breathe too quickly or even worse they hold their breath. And doing either of these will make you tired quickly. Inhaling slower calms you down that affects your concentration, controls any jitters so that you stay focused and relaxed. Slowing down your breathing you will keep your energy up longer.

Breathing matching your movements 

Let out your breath differently during explosive actions compared to holding your breath. When sparring, hitting the heavy bag, or shadow boxing, you still want to breathe in slowly, preferably through your nose. When you punch, let out a short quick breath – make a sound to ensure you are breathing. Long and slow breaths in through the nose, with short bursts out when striking. 

How to practice

Much like other boxing techniques, you will want to practice your breathing methods. When warming up on the treadmill or out on a walk, concentrate and just breath through your nose.

When you get the hang of breathing techniques while boxing and exercising, you will notice how effective it truly is.  While exercising you will stay calmer and have a clear mind to execute the combinations. Your energy will increase and you will become more explosive with your movements. 

Important of nose breathing

Research has found that breathing through your mouth means that you will miss out on 90% of the oxygen that your body needs to support your organs, tissues and cells. Without this oxygen you face the risk of damage to your body and tissue and cell death. Over an extended period of time, living with reduced oxygen levels can leave you at risk of developing a severe illness or even a chronic health condition, such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. Breathing through your nose also allows you to take deeper breaths that engage the lower lungs. When your lower lungs become active, your lungs will pump out more oxygen to the rest of your body. More oxygen means more support your cells and maintains healthy tissue and organ function.

Practice your breathing techniques while trying out a new GWX On Demand video – Mitt Challenge: 5-Combo.