Coaching Mind's Podcast: Perform at your best! #122 - FC Pt 4: What if "taking a deep breath" doesn't work?
Sep 26, 2024
Struggling athletes often find breathing techniques ineffective during competition. This discussion delves into assessing diaphragmatic breathing and the impact of belief in its effectiveness. It highlights the importance of integrating relaxation techniques into routines and the effects of hydration and nutrition on performance. Additionally, the podcast covers how quality sleep enhances reaction times and overall skill. Practical strategies like muscle relaxation and targeted breathing variations are shared to help athletes optimize their performance under pressure.
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Verify True Diaphragmatic Breathing
- Check whether the athlete is actually doing diaphragmatic breathing rather than just taking a big breath.
- Time the inhale, hold, exhale, and pause so each is roughly 8 seconds for effective diaphragmatic breathing.
Golfer Said 'I Did The Breathing'—But Didn't
- Ben recounts coaching golfer Kaylin Henderson who said she'd 'do the breathing' but wasn't using diaphragmatic breaths.
- Timing her breaths revealed she wasn't following the diaphragmatic pattern she had written down.
Belief Determines Effectiveness
- Belief in the technique matters: athletes who think breathing is bogus resist its effects.
- Explaining the physiology (vagus nerve, heart rate, cortisol) helps athletes accept and engage with breathing.
