All About… Belly Breathing

Sending breath down into your belly (Belly breathing) as a habitual breathing pattern is something that many new to Hypopressives discover they do, especially common in those who have a background in Yoga.

Belly breathing is frequently recommended in various methods as it facilitates individuals to sense the movement of the diaphragm and alleviates tension in the upper chest. It is pretty straightforward to instruct and teach and it’s quick to learn and master. We do not label Belly Breathing as ‘bad’ - it does offer certain benefits in particular scenarios, such as stress management or meditation, and this seems to be where the confusion lies.

When the breathing pattern is examined from a functional standpoint (optimal breathing) persistent belly breathing does not genuinely enhance diaphragm mobility over the long term. Our primary objective in Hypopressives is to cultivate thoracic expansion (rib cage mobility) and activate the deep abdominal muscles, allowing the diaphragm to function in its natural manner.

Belly breathing has it’s place; but it is not the healthiest choice when it becomes your predominant, habitual (subconscious) breathing pattern, repeated with your 20,000+ breaths a day. This is why, in Hypopressives, we emphasize costal breathing (rib cage breathing) which integrates diaphragm movement with deep core co-activation. We do this as it is significantly more advantageous for posture, core functionality (including the pelvic floor) and overall long-term health.

Through Hypopressives, we are reconditioning our breathing habits so that, in life beyond the studio, you can subconsciously breathe in a far more functionally healthy manner.

In class and when we begin learning the technique of Low Pressure Fitness, before we even commence working on the abdominal vacuum, we establish the fundamentals, referred to as ‘rest breaths’. This entails inhaling by expanding your ribs, mobilizing your diaphragm, and subsequently allowing your abdomen to naturally retract as you exhale without force. When this basic foundation is mastered, you can learn any other breathing technique you desire as an additional skill.

There is always more to discover when it come to the body and breath, and numerous myths to debunk. Nevertheless, the foundation remains: what we impart in Hypopressives is straightforward, functional, and accurate.