Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Meghana Reddy S

Breathing Exercises to Increase Lung Capacity

Improving lung capacity is crucial for maintaining respiratory health and overall well-being. Whether you're an athlete seeking better endurance or someone looking to enhance lung function, incorporating breathing exercises into your routine can be highly beneficial.

In this article, we'll explore six effective breathing exercises to increase lung capacity, strengthen your lungs, and promote better breathing habits.

Why Lung Capacity Matters?

Lung capacity refers to the maximum amount of air your lungs can hold. The greater your capacity, the more oxygen your body can absorb and circulate, supporting your brain, muscles, and organs.

Benefits of increasing lung capacity include:

As we age, our lung function naturally declines. But through intentional breathing exercises, we can slow down this decline and, in many cases, even reverse some limitations.

6 Breathing Exercises to Strengthen Your Lungs and Increase Capacity

Diaphragmatic Breathing

The diaphragm, a muscle located between the abdomen and the lung, is essential for breathing. People with COPD rely on accessory muscles in the back, shoulders, and neck rather than the diaphragm. Diaphragmatic breathing improves the efficiency of the muscle.

Sit with your back against a wall or lie down. One hand should be on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale deeply through your nose. Make sure your stomach moves outward while your chest stays still while doing this form of breathing. Your stomach should shift inwards when you exhale slowly for two seconds.

Huff Cough

When you have a chronic respiratory infection, mucus appears to build up quickly. The huff cough is a breathing method that can help you expand your lung capacity. It makes it easier to cough up mucus without putting too much strain on your lungs or leaving you tired.

Make a comfortable sitting spot for yourself. Inhale more deeply than normal. Blowing the air out in three even breaths while making the sounds "ha, ha, ha" with the aid of your tummy muscles. As if you were blowing on a mirror to make it steam.

Deep Breathing

One of the most effective exercises for increasing lung capacity is deep breathing. It keeps oxygen from being trapped in the lungs, allowing you to breathe normally.

Pursed Lip Breathing

This specific breathing technique for increasing lung capacity has been shown to encourage relaxation and release trapped air from the lungs while alleviating symptoms including breathlessness and trouble breathing.

Continue to sit in the same place as before. Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale slowly through pursed lips, as if pouting or about to blow something on something. Breathing out should take at least twice as long as breathing in.

Simhasan

Cross your ankles and get down on all fours. Have your fingers spread wide and your palms ahead of your knees. Keep your eyes wide open and inhale deeply through your nose. Open your mouth and stick out your tongue, pulling the tip down towards your chin at the same time.

When you exhale out of your mouth while making a long "ha" sound, contract the muscles at the front of your throat and feel the air flow through it. You can focus on the area between your brows or the tip of your nose if you want to. Repeat this breath 2–3 times.

Rib Stretch Breathing

Exhale to your full capacity when standing upright. Then slowly inhale, trying to fill the lungs as much as possible. Exhale slowly and return to a comfortable position after holding your breath for 10-20 seconds, or as long as you are able.

Benefits of Doing Breathing Exercises

Lifestyle Tips to Support Lung Capacity

Breathing exercises work best when paired with healthy lifestyle habits:

The Significance of Lung Capacity and Function

Lung capacity refers to the maximum air the lungs can hold, while lung function refers to how effectively the lungs work to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. Optimal lung capacity and function are vital for overall health and well-being.

They ensure that our body receives sufficient oxygen and expels waste gasses efficiently. However, sedentary lifestyles, pollution, smoking, and aging can lead to reduced lung capacity and compromised lung function.

Conclusion

Enhancing lung capacity and improving lung function through breathing exercises is a proactive step towards better overall health. Engaging in these simple yet effective exercises can strengthen your respiratory muscles, boost oxygenation, and experience a sense of calm and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions