How to Run a Mile Fast Without Your Chest Burning

Drink water and breathe deeply after a run to help stop the burning feeling in your chest.
i Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

When you are not used to running on a regular basis, your chest burns more easily, especially when you're going fast. Learning how to breathe properly while running, gaining endurance through physical fitness and running practice are the best remedies for this uncomfortable feeling. Take enough time to train properly before a competitive mile run, and make sure to visit a physician if you are having trouble breathing for an extended period of time or if you are experiencing other types of pain when running.

    Use an indoor track whenever possible when running. The temperature is regulated, and there are fewer allergens and pollutants that can irritate your lungs. Take any medications for asthma and other breathing problems as directed by your physician, as this can help ease the burning sensation that you sometimes feel when running a fast mile.

    Take deep breaths from the very beginning of each run that you go on, even if you are not yet feeling tired or out of breath. This will help keep ample oxygen in your body. Deep breaths work out your diaphragm, which is the muscle that does the majority of the work when you breathe. A strong diaphragm means that you can run faster for longer periods of time before you begin to feel burning in your chest.

    Breathe from your belly instead of your chest. Feel your stomach balloon out when you take a dep breath and deflate when you exhale. Open your mouth slightly while running and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. This might cause you to have a dry mouth, so drink plenty of water before and after the run.

    Participate in moderate- to high-intensity aerobic activities multiple times per week. This helps to strengthen your lungs and raise your endurance levels for running faster miles. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes per session. Running, jogging, cycling and dancing are all good exercises to try. Swimming can help burning lungs because of the extra humidity in the air from being near water.

    Run a mile two to three times per week to increase your overall fitness level and endurance. Over time, your increased lung capacity, stronger diaphragm and stronger body will help you breathe easier while running. The burning will slowly stop happening if you have motivation to keep at it, as well as the patience to continue through pain.

the nest

×