Breathing - a fundamental, automated process that we don't give much thought to until we decide to wade back into the waters of fitness after a period of inactivity or attempt a maximal effort, then we are suddenly reminded by burning lungs and constricted chest.

This sensation tends to get the better of us and makes it hard to proceed - let's face it, it feels kak, especially for newbie runners. We're told it gets easier or do we just get better? In this episode we take a deep dive into breathing and the multifaceted ways that we can use our breath to make running a much easier and enjoyable experience!

Our guest, Dr. Lawrence van Lingen, a Chiropractor by trade and human physiology and performance boffin by experience, helps us make sense of seemingly complex concepts like:

• Why breathing right matters and the physiology behind the process.
• Nose breathing vs. mouth breathing.
• Why CO2 is not just a "waste" by-product but the secret sauce powering performance.
• Breathing efficiently at any pace.
• Interactive breathing techniques, tests and exercises.
• The relationship between breathing, mindfulness, emotion and our perception.
• The effect breathing has on nutrition (this one was a wow moment).
• How changing your breathing can change your cadence, tendency to cramp and even injury incidence.

Although much was covered there is still so much more that could've been discussed - this is a fascinating topic! If you'd like to connect with Lawrence, find him at https://www.innerunner.com/about-us or give him a follow https://www.instagram.com/lawrencevanlingen/

Let us know what you thought of the episode and what you'd like us to cover next.

Enjoy!