Fact 7: Lowered Exercise Efficiency
For those invested in physical fitness, breathing efficiency is paramount. Oxygen is the fuel for our muscles, and how we breathe can influence our workout performance. Mouth breathing, especially during exercise, might hinder optimal performance.
When we breathe through our noses, the air is warmed, humidified, and filtered, ensuring that the oxygen reaching our lungs is of the highest quality. This not only protects the respiratory system but ensures better oxygen exchange, optimizing performance.
Mouth breathing, conversely, brings in larger volumes of colder, drier air. While this might seem like a way to get more oxygen rapidly, it’s not the most efficient. The colder air can constrict the airways, reducing the amount of oxygen reaching the lungs.
Moreover, nasal breathing ensures better diaphragmatic use, leading to improved core stability and posture during workouts. Mouth breathers, often resorting to shallow chest breathing, might not engage the diaphragm as efficiently. (7)
