How to Control Your Breathing While Fighting

Breathing is an important part of martial arts or fighting sports.

In martial arts, boxing or any other fighting sport, breathing techniques are an important part of the lessons. Learning to control the breath during a fight can make the difference between a victory and a loss. When breathing is not controlled during a fight, the lack of oxygen can slow down the body. Controlled breathing will provide optimal oxygen during a fight.

Instructions

1. Take a deep breath through the nose. During a fight, it is important to breath through the nose rather than breathing through the mouth. Dr. Jacob Jordan, the author of "Total Mind Body Training," states that nose breathing delivers oxygen most efficiently to the body.

2. Breathe out through the mouth. In martial arts, this exhale is often accompanied by a vocalization. At the same time as the exhale or vocalization, the body should complete the fighting move, such as a kick or a punch.

3. Move your hand or foot back after striking on the inhale. Repeat the process throughout the whole fight.

Tips & Warnings

• To improve breathing during a fight, work on breathing exercises without movement and while running or practicing.

References

• Turtle Press; Optimal Method of Breathing for Martial Arts Training; Dr. Jacob Jordan
• USA Dojo: Breathing Training for Martial Artists; Aaron Hoopes