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What is the usual breathing pattern when lifting weights?
Breathe out as you lift, and breathe in as you lower the weight.
- Hold your breath the whole rep
- Breathe out as you lift, in as you lower ✔
- Breathe only at the top
Why: Mayo Clinic says not to hold your breath while lifting. Instead, breathe out as you lift the weight and breathe in as you lower it.
Huh, didn't know that: Cleveland Clinic gives the same cue for squats: inhale as you lower, exhale as you push back up.
Lifting is like birthday candles: blow out on the hard part.
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References
Answer: Breathe out as you lift, in as you lower. Mayo Clinic says not to hold your breath while lifting. Instead, breathe out as you lift the weight and breathe in as you lower it.
- Mayo Clinic: Weight training, Do's and don'ts of proper technique www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/weight-training/art-20045842
try to breathe out as you lift the weight and breathe in as you lower the weight
Checked 2026-10-12.
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