Coordinate your breathing with the movement on the leg press: exhale as you push the weight away from you and inhale as you return the weight towards your body.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Exhale during the exertion phase: This means you exhale forcefully and steadily as you extend your legs and push the footplate away. Exhaling during the most challenging part of the exercise helps stabilize your core and allows you to generate more power.
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Inhale during the return phase: As you bend your knees and bring the footplate closer to you, inhale deeply. This refills your lungs and prepares you for the next repetition.
Key Considerations for Breathing on the Leg Press:
- Controlled Breathing: Avoid holding your breath (Valsalva maneuver). Holding your breath can lead to a dangerous increase in blood pressure.
- Consistent Rhythm: Aim for a smooth and consistent breathing pattern throughout the exercise.
- Core Engagement: Maintain a stable core by engaging your abdominal muscles throughout the exercise, which aids in proper breathing and prevents injury.
- Full Range of Motion: Focus on breathing throughout the full range of motion, even when the exercise becomes challenging.
In summary: Exhale as you push the weight and inhale as you lower it. Maintaining proper breathing is crucial for safety and maximizing your performance on the leg press.
