Fitness, Health and Nutrition Forum - Proper Breathing vs. Engaged Core

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Q: Proper Breathing vs. Engaged Core

asked by: ClaudiaM on September 4th, 2009

New User

We are always told to "stand straight, tuck in your belly, tighten abs and engage your core". I have been working on doing that, but have found that I am short of breath. Then you hear proper breathing involves breathing from the ABDOMEN, not just the chest. If I focus on breathing from the abdomen, then I am certainly not tucking in the belly, tightening abs or engaging my core. The two "health tips" completely negate each other! Am i missing something? Is there a way to do BOTH???

Replies(1)

Dr. Christine L. Selby , PHD

replied on September 4th, 2009

Thanks for your question...its a good one! I might recommend consulting with either a physician who specilializes in exercise or a physical trainer. It may be the case that while both processes are important they cannot both be engaged simultaneously!

Best wishes to you,

Dr. Selby

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