How to Properly Breathe During Mat Pilates

Pilates mat breathing is very different from yoga breath work. Since Pilates works the core muscles, Pilates breathing focuses on very forceful, timed breathing through the nose and mouth.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pilates mat or towel

1. Lie or stand on your mat (depending on the type of mat exercise).

2. Engage your core muscles (especially your abdominal muscles) and as you perform the exercise, breathe in forcefully through your nostrils.Release the breath forcefully as you blow out the breath through your mouth. Count in time to the exercise repetitions. Pant in quick successions to the beat of each repetition.

3. Example of rapid succession breathing: In seated bicycle, as you quickly bring alternating knees to the chest move in rhythm with your breath with quick panting breaths to the count of three. Inhale deeply for one breath and then breathe out quickly three short breaths through your mouth (so it sounds like you are panting quickly).

4. Inhale deeply through the nose and exhale deeply through the mouth after you perform these quick succession exercises and breath work.

Tips & Warnings

• This type of breathing in mat Pilates brings energy and focus to your core muscles and allows you to perform the exercises more effectively. It also clears out toxins and brings more clarity to your mind after a Pilates work out.
• If you feel short of breath or feel dizzy when performing this mat Pilates breath work, stop immediately and rest. If you have a medical condition, please consult a physician before attempting mat Pilates.

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