100m -- holding my breath?

Question

When I run the 100 I hold my breath the whole way instinctively. I have heard breathing while running the 100 improves your speed because you're providing oxygen to your muscles. Can anyone just clarify that and help me with my breathing techniques? Because I hold my breath instinctively it may be hard for me to learn to breathe running the 100 sooo any suggestions are appreciated

Answer 1

wow, that's hardcore man, wow, you must be a strong dude,, okay , good luck

Answer 2

breathing would help you a lot, i used to run sprints, but now i run the 800 and 1600, and people still have to remind me to breath right, but breath in through your nose and out through your mouth, practice breathing at practice and try it one time in a meet, good luck!

Answer 3

that's the silliest thing Ive ever heard, you're more likely to faint holding your breath

Answer 4

Well.....tough situation, but try running it slowly and slowly begin to breath in a pattern.  You have to go in the nose and out the mouth to make sure you don't get cramps since you are proablly not use to that.  Good luck! =)

Answer 5

You really should be breathing while running any race.  In the 100m, your body actually isn't using oxygen at all.  Your muscles are fed by other forms of energy.  But you must still breathe to keep yourself relaxed.  Holding your breath is a tense activity and will slow you down.

This is how you can fix this:

"Runners take your mark" - as you get into your blocks breathe normally.

"Set" - As you come set, inhale deeply (but not quickly) and hold.

"BANG!" - Come out of your blocks, still holding your breath.  This allows you to fully exert yourself during your drive phase.

15-20 meters - Exhale forcefully as you end your drive phase and begin sprinting.

20 to finish - Continue to breathe.  In through the nose and out the mouth is usually recommended but it really doesn't make that much of a difference in a race this short.