Sprinting. People either hate it or they love it. When coaches require their players to sprint, they hate it. When runners, cyclists or swimmers sprint to the finish line, they love it. Sprinting really depends on when you do it and why you do it. Many joggers use a sprint to finish their run, while sprinting for some athletes, like soccer players or swimmers, is just part of the game or competition. The goal behind sprinting, however, should be to push your body to new exercise or athletic levels, not to overextend it.
It has been made obvious that even coordination isn’t required to sprint, because there are some people who look rather silly running up and down a track or through a trail. You don’t even have to be in top physical shape or athletic. Sprinting is used to get in shape, stay in shape, or hit your peak. One thing that is required to make the most out of your sprints is proper breathing technique.
Efficient breathing is the only way to ensure your lungs are getting blood flow and oxygen to the necessary parts of your body, including your legs. Although you may take off in a sprint, it does not mean that your breathing should match the speed of your running, cycling or swimming. Breathing easy and under control before, during and after your sprints is key to getting the most out of the exercise.
Sprint training is a great exercise for athletes and people who want to get into shape or achieve better conditioning. There are different exercise methods when it comes to sprinting. There are short sprints and long sprints. Regardless of your choice or if you choose both, you must abide by the breathing and rest principles. The shorter the distance sprinted, the shorter the rest between, and vice versa. For example, if you sprint 100 meters, then rest for a minute. If you sprint 50 meters, take a 30 second rest. Keep in mind that sprint training is not for the faint of heart.
Make sure your body gets the proper rest after you are finished sprinting. Pushing yourself over and over and over without enough rest will cumulate in body breakdown. Also, for such a strenuous activity as sprinting, be certain to eat healthy – plenty of greens, vegetables, and fruit – and drink plenty of water. Remember the old school requirement of eight glasses a day (that’s only 64 ounces in a day). Hydration ensures your oxygen levels throughout your body are sufficient.
If you struggle with dispersing enough oxygen when sprinting, it may be because your breathing is not succinct. It would be best for your respiratory system to consider using the PowerLung, which strengthens your respiratory muscles. The hand-held device helps cut down on your lung exertion, which helps spread oxygen to the proper areas, keeping your body fresh.
Breathing in sync with your body’s physical demands is essential to an overall effective workout. Remember, as your breathing falters, your body will follow. Your breathing controls your blood flow, so be certain to breath correctly and rhythmically to ensure the right parts of the body are receiving good blood flow.