How To Increase Oxygen Before A Wrestling Competition

Improper breathing, which can occur before a stressful event such as a wrestling competition, can result in fatigue and a decrease in mental alertness. Rapid or improper breathing can also cause stiffness in the rib cage, reduce your oxygen supply and can even lead to long-term health conditions such as respiratory disease and heart disease. Fortunately, you can increase the amount of oxygen to your lungs, blood and muscles by doing a simple abdominal breathing exercise prior to your wresting competition.

Step 1

Lie back on a floor or mat. If possible, tuck a few small pillows or rolled up towels beneath your neck and knees.

Step 2

Position one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. Inhale deeply through your nose and make sure that the hand on your stomach rises higher than the hand on your chest. Imagine you are pulling all of the air from the room into your lungs.

Step 3

Exhale slowly via your mouth for approximately eight seconds. Contract the muscles in your abdomen to expel all of the air from your lungs.

Step 4

Repeat for a total of five deep breaths. Attempt to breathe one complete breath about every 10 seconds.

Tips and Warnings

When you feel that you have mastered the abdominal breathing technique, try adding words to each inhalation and exhalation. For example, when you breathe in, whisper a positive word such as "relaxation" or "winner." Upon the exhalation, whisper a word like, "Fear" or "Stress."
Stop the breathing exercise if you experience light headedness or dizziness at any point. Never pant or breathe shallowly. This can lead to hyperventilation and a brief blackout. If you feel as if you are hyperventilating, immediately purse your lips and inhale. Breathe out through your nostrils. This will help increase carbon dioxide, which will reduce dizziness.