
Slow Breathing and Runner Fatigue
Medium
Can slow breathing help runners push past the moment they feel like giving up? Many runners experience "hitting the wall," a sudden wave of fatigue during a run. This project tests whether a breathing technique can reduce it.
You divide at least 10 beginner runners into two equal groups. One group learns and practices slow breathing daily for four weeks. The other group keeps running without the technique. After four weeks you interview everyone about changes in their wall-hitting experience.
Compare how often each group still hits the wall and whether the breathing group reports less frequent fatigue.
Hypothesis
The hypothesis is that slow breathing can help reduce the frequency of hitting the wall for runners.
Method & Materials
You will divide 10 runners into two groups of 5. Group A will receive training in slow breathing, while group B will be the control group. Group A will practice slow breathing daily, and all participants will report back after four weeks.
You will need at least 10 participants, who are beginner runners, and two data sheets.
Results
The results of this experiment showed that slow breathing can help reduce the frequency of hitting the wall for runners. The participants in Group A reported that they were able to run further and faster after practicing slow breathing.
Why do this project?
This science project is interesting because it looks at how something as simple as slow breathing can have a positive effect on the body. It also shows how the body can adapt to different conditions and how our emotions can affect our performance.
Also Consider
Variations of this experiment could include looking at the effects of slow breathing on experienced runners, or looking at the effects of slow breathing on different types of physical activities.
Full project details
Additional information and source material for this project are available below.Related videos
These videos explain the science behind this project and demonstrate key concepts used in the experiment.
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