Breathing Flashcards
Why is breathing good in Pilates?
It is synonymous with life and with movement.
It can promote relaxation, release tension and get one more in tuned with the body.
It activates specific muscles.
Name 3 types if breathing.
- Thoracic Breathing
- Intetcostal /Lateral Breathing
- Diaphragmatic Breathing
What is Thoracic Breathing?
Emotional breathing. Happens when someone is crying emotionally. Could also happen with someone suffering from an asthma attack. Breathing in a panic. Very superficial, upper chest breathing.
What is Intercostal / Lateral Breathing?
The muscles located between the ribs are commonly called the Intercostal muscles and together with the Serratus Anterior, assists the ribcage with wide, sideways/Lateral Breathing.
The small Intercostal muscles between the ribs run in two layers. The external Intercostals run opposite to the internal Intercostals.
As we inhale laterally, the externals expand while the internals assist with the contraction on closing the ribs on an exhale.
What is diaphragmatic Breathing?
This is normal everyday breathing. It is automatic and enough air enters the body to supply the organs and brain.
What breathing is used during Pilates?
Intercostal /Lateral (sideways) Breathing
What are the benefits of breathing?
- Breathing assists in aligning the spine.
- Allows the body to relax.
- Helps concentration.
- Assists balance.
- Creates flow of movement.
What does inhalation do?
Prepares the body
Mentally reminds one of postural alignment
What does exhalation do?
Engages deep abdominal muscles
What is percussive breathing
Breathing to maintain the rhythm
How should we breathe in Pilates… The order
Breath in to prepare for a movement
Breath out to engage abdominal whilst moving
Breathe to recover
Breathe out to return to starting position
