How to Build Up Your Lungs

How to Build Up Your Lungs
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Your lungs are two of the largest organs in your body. They provide space for oxygen exchange that supplies the bloodstream and ultimately your system with a vital element. Building up your lungs means strengthening the muscles responsible for chest expansion and lung function. Developing a routine that improves your health and strengthens lungs will have a positive impact on your energy level and overall fitness.

Step 1

Schedule aerobic exercise five days a week to improve lung function. According to the America Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, aerobic exercise is one way to build up your lungs. Aerobics consist of a continuous exercise that uses the large muscles groups. Consider activities such as walking, biking and swimming or taking a class. Exercise periods should last at least 30 minutes.

Step 2

Perform deep breathing exercises daily. Deep breathing is one way to concentrate on your lungs to strengthen functioning. Inhale in three slow phases. Take air in through the nose and inhale once, stop, inhale again and then one more time. Do not let air out during the inhalation phase. After three inhalations, hold the air for five seconds and release it slowly through your mouth. If you feel pressure against the muscles in your stomach, you are expanding your lungs fully.

Step 3

Lift weights and do resistance training that focuses on back, abdominal and chest muscles. Concentrate on chest presses, pull downs and ab work, such as crunches. Control your breathing while lifting. For instances, if doing a chest press, inhale during the release or return to the start position. Exhale during the exertion phase. Lift the bar and breathe out through your mouth. Expanding lungs during a workout will benefit muscles and improve lung capacity at the same time.

References

Article reviewed by Darrin Peschka Last updated on: Aug 2, 2010

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