Am I Breathing Correctly? 3 Exercises To Test Your Technique

Breathing is something we do every day without much thought. However, the way we breathe can significantly impact our posture, core strength, and overall well-being.

Breathing Assessments in Physical Therapy Evaluations

At Sparq Physical Therapy, we often assess breathing patterns as part of our comprehensive physical therapy evaluations.

Understanding Proper Breathing Mechanics

When you inhale, your abdominal wall and ribs should expand outward, allowing your diaphragm to descend and your lungs to fill efficiently. This diaphragmatic breathing supports core stability and reduces unnecessary tension in the body.

If you notice your chest rising more than your abdomen during inhalation, you might be engaging in shallow breathing, which can lead to muscle imbalances, decreased oxygen intake, and pelvic floor dysfunction.

3 Simple Exercises to Test and Improve Your Breathing

1. Hand Placement Test

• How to do it: Lie on your back with knees bent. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen.

• What to observe: As you inhale through your nose, the hand on your abdomen should rise more than the one on your chest, indicating proper diaphragmatic breathing.

2. 360° Rib Expansion

• How to do it: Wrap a resistance band or towel around your lower ribs. Inhale deeply through your nose.

• What to observe: You should feel the band expand evenly in all directions—front, sides, and back—signifying balanced rib expansion.

3. Wall Breathing

• How to do it: Sit or stand with your back against a wall. Place your hands on your lower ribs.

• What to observe: As you inhale, feel your ribs and back gently press into the wall, promoting full diaphragmatic engagement.

Why Focus on Breathing?

Proper breathing techniques are foundational in physical therapy. They enhance core stability, improve posture, and aid in stress reduction. At Sparq Physical Therapy, we integrate breathing assessments into our personalized treatment plans to address various conditions, from chronic pain to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Ready to Enhance Your Breathing Technique?

If you're uncertain about your breathing patterns or experiencing related issues, our team at Sparq Physical Therapy is here to help. We offer individualized assessments and interventions to optimize your breathing mechanics and overall physical health.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards improved well-being.

Note: This blog post is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.