Galina Prokopyeva, a respected sports consultant and a distinguished winner of the inaugural adult category in athletics, also excels as a marathon runner and a competition champion. In a discussion with socialbites.ca, Prokopyeva shared practical guidance on correct breathing techniques for runners and highlighted a frequent misstep seen among beginners.
Her message is clear: when running, breathing should feel natural and unrestrained. It is not necessary to monitor inhalation and exhalation timing or to hold the breath. Many newcomers fall into this trap, trying to pace their breathing in a way that disrupts rhythm. To maximize oxygen delivery to the muscles, regular, deep breaths are essential. Practically, this means keeping the upper body relaxed, with the shoulders lowered and rotated slightly backward rather than thrust forward. The emphasis should be on initiating breaths from the abdomen, allowing the diaphragm to work efficiently and supporting steady airflow throughout the run.
There is also a misconception that air intake must occur exclusively through the nose. Prokopyeva notes that while nasal breathing is natural during rest, physical activity demands a larger air volume. During workouts, it is beneficial to breathe through both the nose and the mouth in a synchronized manner, ensuring the body receives sufficient oxygen without compromising pace or comfort.
Earlier, Prokopyeva discussed potential risks associated with running while using headphones to listen to music. She advised runners to be mindful of their awareness of surroundings and the potential impact on pace, focus, and safety during training sessions.