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September 4, 2026

Breathing and Abs: Common Mistakes

Respiration et abdominaux : les erreurs fréquentes

During abdominal exercises, breathing is often forgotten: we hold our breath to finish a repetition, clench our jaw, or pull on our neck. Yet, better breath control helps keep the core engaged and allows for more controlled movements.

1. Don't hold your breath

Holding your breath for too long increases overall tension and can cause dizziness or tightness. In most exercises, exhale during the exertion phase, for example when you lift your torso or straighten your legs, and then inhale as you return to the starting position.

The goal of abdominal exercises is not to push yourself to the limit, but to move with controlled core engagement and breathing that accompanies the effort. Controlled exhalation often promotes a better feeling of core engagement without turning the set into a breath-holding exercise.

2. Avoid pulling with the neck

When your abdominal muscles get tired, it's tempting to pull your head up with your hands. This compensatory movement stiffens your upper body and disrupts your breathing. Keep your neck long, your gaze gentle, and reduce the range of motion if you feel like you're losing control.

The right exercise is the one you feel in your core, not the one that overloads your neck.

3. Choose an appropriate difficulty level

Crunches, dead bugs, planks, or leg raises don't all place the same load. Start with a variation you can breathe normally, then gradually increase the leverage, duration, or volume.

A slow progression allows you to develop strength and coordination without turning every session into a struggle.

4. Keep the basin under control

In many exercises, the lower back should not arch excessively. Use a range of motion that allows you to maintain the desired contact and control. If the pelvis moves too much, simplify the variation or take a break.

Calm breathing also helps to avoid the rushing that leads to compensations.

5. Organize your series

Focus on quality sets, with sufficient rest to allow for normal breathing. Mix up stability, flexion, and pelvic control exercises rather than endlessly repeating the same movement.

In case of unusual pain, dizziness or difficulty breathing, stop and seek advice before resuming.

Conclusion

To better work your abs, start by breathing without tensing up. Timed exhalation during exertion, appropriate difficulty, and controlled posture make each repetition more effective and safer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to exhale during abdominal exercises?

Generally exhale during the effort phase and inhale during the return, while keeping the movement controlled.

Should you constantly pull in your stomach?

Aim for a gentle and controlled core engagement, without blocking your breathing or creating excessive tension.

Why does my neck hurt?

You may be pulling with your hands or using too large a range of motion. Reduce the difficulty and correct your posture.

Do the boards require a particular type of breathing?

Breathe calmly and regularly. Avoid holding your breath for the entire duration.

How many sets should I do?

The right volume depends on your level. Focus on clean sets that you can recover from.

When should we stop?

Stop if you experience acute pain, dizziness, discomfort or unusual pain.

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