Compact resistance breathing devices can help you breathe better by increasing the strength and endurance of the muscles responsible for respiration according to a "Los Angeles Times" article "Breathe Deep and Build Endurance With a Little Help." These devices are popular with singers, divers, musicians and athletes. Doing a breathing exercise with a compact device can help you warm up for a workout or it can be used for medical purposes as prescribed by your doctor. It only takes a few minutes a day for results.
Step 1
Sit or stand in a well ventilated area and put the mouthpiece of the compact breathing device into your mouth with the side marked "top" facing the ceiling. Bite on the sides of the mouthpiece gently but firmly so that it stays in place. Sit or stand up straight with your chest lifted, shoulders pulled back, and your chin level to the floor to facilitate proper breathing.
Step 2
Adjust the resistance offered by the device as you take a few test breaths through your mouth and the mouthpiece. Find the level that feels doable but still makes you work hard. Keep the mouthpiece securely in your mouth once the level is set.
Step 3
Breathe in deeply through your mouth, taking in as much air as you can. Expand your abdomen, lungs and upper chest so you are inhaling as much as possible. Count to two without exhaling.
Step 4
Breathe back out through your mouth and the mouthpiece until as much air as you can get out has left your body. Open your mouth and take out the device, allowing yourself to breath until you can resume normal breathing.
Step 5
Put the device back in your mouth and bite down gently. Take between 10 and 12 deep breaths with the device. This counts as one set. Breathe in deeply and slowly with each breath, taking in all of the air, retaining it for two seconds and then releasing it. Perform a total of two to four sets of breathing exercises daily, unless otherwise directed by your physician.
Tips and Warnings
- When choosing the level of resistance, look for a valve that turns. The Expand-A-Lung device adjusts by turning the resistance valve either to the left to increase resistance or to the right to decrease it. Perform a set of 10 to 12 breaths before an athletic event.
- Smokers should not use a compact breathing device. Do not use the device right after you eat.
Things You'll Need
- Compact breathing device
References
- "LA Times": Breathe deep and build endurance with a little help
- "EXPAND-A-LUNG" Breathing Resistance Exerciser Instructions; Expand A Lung, Inc.
