8 Wonderful Exercises To Improve Lung Capacity

One of the most important organs in our body, the lungs perform the task of delivering oxygen to all parts of the body. Just like other parts, it too needs to stay healthy and exercise is the best way to improve its capability. There are certain exercises which aid in better absorption of oxygen from the air we breathe in. It not only ensures a healthy supply of oxygen but also prevents the onset of diseases. However, keep in mind that you have to be regular with your exercise regime if you are looking for rewards. Before starting any workout routine, try to acclimatize with the schedule. Start with smaller sets and increase the count as you go up the ladder. Lastly, do not over exert your body and try to improve your capacity slowly.

Let’s Find Out 8 Wonderful Exercises To Improve Our Lung Capacity:

1. Cardio Exercises

Cardio exercises are considered heavy duty activity that can tire out a person faster. As the person practices any form of cardio exercise, it increases the heart rate and the requirement for oxygen also increases manifold. In doing so, the lungs also work harder to meet the body’s needs and eventually, strengthens its capacity. However, keep in mind that you have to continue cardio exercises for at least 30 minutes every day to achieve this objective.

2. Aerobics

Regular aerobics can strengthen your lungs to a large extent. The rhythmic movement of large muscle groups help to improve lung capacity and increases the body’s endurance levels. As endurance improves, the body’s capability to absorb oxygen also increases, thereby helping the lungs to function properly. Different types of aerobic activities can be practiced and if you follow a routine, it will keep you healthy and fit for longer.

3. High Elevation Workouts

High altitude workouts are hard to pursue and needs a lot of practice. If you are looking to improve your lung capacity through high elevation workouts, it is recommended to start gradually. As the oxygen levels fall at high altitudes, it becomes difficult to breathe and the lungs start absorbing more oxygen through breathing. This eventually facilitates the lungs and improves its capacity.

4. Water Exercises

Weight training or stretching under water is one of the best forms of exercises for improving lung capacity. Since water acts as a resistance to your body, it will work faster when you are exercising and therefore, increase breathing and take in more oxygen. It is best to practice these kinds of activities at neck deep water for best results. However, you need to practice regularly to improve the efficiency of your lungs. And if you are wary of doing these, opt for swimming, a fun and easy way to nurture lung capacity.

5. Abdominal Breathing

Breathing exercises are ideal for improving lung capacity. Abdominal breathing is a simple yet effective exercise that can be practiced at home. Lie down on your back and place one hand over your chest. Keep the other hand over the abdomen and slowly breathe through your nose. Hold your breath for a few moments and then gradually exhale through the mouth. Now pull your abdominal muscles inward to remove the remaining air from your lungs. Complete this set for 5 to 6 times and it will help to increase lung capacity.

6. Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise

Another great way to improve your lung capacity is through the diaphragmatic breathing exercise. Lie down on a flat surface and bend your knees. Place a pillow under your knees for extra support. It is also similar to abdominal breathing. Keep one hand below the rib cage and the other one on the chest. Inhale through the nose, without raising your chest. Remain still and exhale through the nose, holding your stomach muscles tightly.

7. Muscle Tightening Stretches

An extremely beneficial exercise for the upper body, the muscle tightening stretches help to strengthen the lungs. It not only offers support to the muscles aiding breathing, it gradually makes them stronger. When practiced regularly, it helps the lungs to function properly and even improves its capacity. Muscle tightening stretches can also be combined with pilates for better results.

8. Rib Stretch

The rib stretch is an excellent exercise to improve lung capacity. Based on controlled breathing patterns, this exercise regime must be practiced regularly for best results. To do the rib stretch, stand straight and keep your back erect. Slowly breathe in as much oxygen as you can and store it in your lungs. Hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds, depending on how long you can keep up. Gradually, release the air from your lungs. Repeat this three times daily and it will help to improve the capacity of your lungs.