We take a dive into the nasal passage (pun intended?) and look at whether there are performance gains that can be obtained by employing nose breathing techniques. This ended up leading to a discussion around how we can evaluate training interventions and make decisions on whether they’re worth implementing for ourselves and our athletes.

Episode Timestamps:
2:30 How do we normally breathe during exercise?
8:25 What are the claimed benefits of nose breathing over mouth breathing?
9:15 Are we getting too much oxygen?
21:15 What do the studies show?
29:25 What level of evidence do you require to apply an intervention?
38:30 If it’s free and easy, should you try it anyway?
46:55 How much does air intake affect endurance performance?
55:10 But the nose is a filter and humidifier, does that help?

Episode References:
Video: Oxygen - Haemoglobin Dissociation Curve Explainer

Oronasal Distribution of Ventilation at Different Ages

The switching point from nasal to oronasal breathing

Effects of Nasal or Oral Breathing on Anaerobic Power Output and Metabolic Responses

Effect of Nasal Versus Oral Breathing on Vo2max and Physiological Economy in Recreational Runners Following an Extended Period Spent Using Nasally Restricted Breathing

This is a listener supported podcast, and we would be stoked if you supported us by becoming a member of The Cycling Performance Club! With your backing we can continue our mission to deliver the best in cycling performance knowledge and practical advice to you and the greater cycling community. Support The Club by clicking here!

Co-hosts:
Jason Boynton, Ph.D. - sport scientist and cycling coach
boyntoncoaching.com

Cyrus Monk - professional cyclist and cycling coach
cyclistscientist.com

Damian Ruse - professional cycling coach
semiprocycling.com

TCPCP Social Media:
Website: cyclingperformanceclub.com
Instagram: @cyclingperformanceclub
Facebook: @cyclingperformanceclub
Twitter: @cyclingclubpod
LinkedIn: The Cycling Performance Club Podcast