Breathing - what is the correct technique?

[OwainGlyndwr]

Under “Running tips” on the Couch to 5K website it tells us to “aim for at least one breath every two strides”

At the start of week 2, the instructor I have chosen tells me to breathe in for four steps of the left foot and exhale over four steps of the left foot.

What is the correct advice?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes my take on breathing techniques........do what comes naturally.

Enjoy your journey.

[OwainGlyndwr in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you very much Iannoda. Really appreciate it.

[Sandraj39 Graduate]

At this stage of the game, I'd second the advice not to overthink it - just do 'what comes naturally'.

Personally, I'm a mouth breather, as are most runners I know. I have never actually counted my breaths🤷‍♀️ but do breathe deep in to my belly (diaphragmatic breathing), something I learned in yoga many years ago. It helps with running as it trains you to fully use your lungs rather than just breathing in to your upper chest.

There is a lot of information out there - this is a really useful article from Runners Connect...

runnersconnect.net/how-to-b...

Ultimately though - do what feels most natural to you. Good luck! 👍🙂

[OwainGlyndwr in reply to Sandraj39]

Thank you very much for replying to my question Sandraj. Really appreciate your advice and excellent link to articles about breathing on Runners Connect.