Breath training. Presented by James Fletcher
Make the work of breathing easier.
We take for granted that breath facilitates movement of all kinds, for all of our clients. The function and capacity of the muscles that perform the work of breathing is often overlooked. James sparks our interest in improving the strength of breathing muscles, to make the job of breathing easier.
The scene is set with a review of some of the key concepts of respiration. That breathing is the only body system that is both autonomic and under our control calls for a moment of pause: an important reminder that the breath is a tool we can bring our attention to.
Various tissues and structures, including muscles, comprise the respiratory system. Respiratory Muscle Training treats these respiration muscles as we do with other muscles that we strength train. The potential benefits of reduced shortness of breath, increased whole body exercise performance, improve core stability and recovery are broadly appealing.
An acknowledgement of the research limitations gives us the opportunity to consider the potential for further research in this area, and to position the findings fairly for application in practice. While there are various specific populations who may benefit most from this line of work, client interest may also arise from a trend of breath work popularity in wellness culture. A fascinating and progressive area to explore.
James Fletcher is an Exercise Physiologist and Physiotherapist. A decade ago, his interest in breathing was sparked by a family member being diagnosed with COPD. As the director of Fletcher Techniques, James has pioneered breathing techniques which have been used widely by athletes and everyday Australians.