In the article "Underground Training Tactics For Enhancing Endurance – Part 1", I introduce you to the concept of using things like resisted, restricted and hypoxic breathing to significantly increase your oxygen utilization, your lung power, your VO2 max, and your inspiratory and expiratory muscle strength and endurance.
In that article, I mention a "PowerLung", which is a special portable restricted breathing device that I personally use when I'm driving around in my car, watching a movie, or waiting in line at the airport as a way to squeeze in a quick lung workout. I keep the Powerlung in my bag and just pull it out whenever I know I have a chance to boost my VO2max. It seems like cheating, but I can actually exercise my lungs just about anytime, anyplace.
But how does the PowerLung thing actually work, is it proven, and can you actually increase your VO2 max without exercising?
In today's audio podcast, I interview Greg Wells, Ph.D., the Assistant Professor of the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education at the University of Toronto and Associate Scientist of Physiology and Experimental Medicine at The Hospital for Sick Children. During our interview, you'll learn:
-Which hidden muscles use over 15% of your energy needs during exercise...
-The 2 best ways to do resisted breath training...
-How your body pulls precious blood away from your arms and legs if you have weak breathing muscles...
-Why breathing in and out of a straw isn't a good idea...
-The sets and reps you should use for potent resisted breath training workout...
-How resisted breathing is different than hypoxic training...
-Why doing breath training the wrong way can increase body acidity...
-What kind of resisted breath devices to use if you have asthma or other lung issues...
-How resisted training could actually give you a six-pack abs...
-And much more!
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Resources:-The PowerLung (use code BGF025 for 25% discount) -Study: Respiratory Muscle Power Before and After Training -White Paper: The Importance of Respiratory Muscle Training Inspiratory and Expiratory Muscles. -The Sick Kids Foundation (10% of proceeds when you use code BGF025 at PowerLung.com go to the Sick Kids Foundation)
Questions, comments or feedback about the Powerlung? Leave you thoughts at BenGreenfieldFitness.com!