Your intercostal muscles are nestled between your ribs. They tend to go about their business with little fanfare, quietly moving air in and out of your lungs. As you pick up the pace of your workout, however, you might hear some complaining from your ribcage area; cases of extreme intercostal overload can leave you with a painful chest stitch. If you've ever cut a workout short because you felt crampy, fatigued or out-of-breath, try boosting your intercostal strength. A simple respiratory exercise, practiced regularly and conscientiously, can help you breathe easier, perform better and avoid rib muscle injury.
Step 1
Find a quiet location, free of noise and other potential distractions. Breathing exercises require focus and concentration. Sit cross-legged on the floor; sit straight on a firm, comfortable chair; or lie down.
Step 2
Clear both nostrils to allow for maximum air flow. Blow your nose several times, if necessary, to clear nasal passageways completely. Place one hand on your upper abdomen and the other hand just under your rib cage so you can monitor expansion and contraction as you inhale and exhale.
Step 3
Breathe in deeply through your nose, filling your belly first. Your lower hand should rise as your upper abdomen expands. Continue to draw air in, actively expanding your ribcage.
Step 4
Prepare to exhale. Press your top and bottom teeth together lightly, raise your tongue toward the top of your mouth and relax your lips in an open position.
Step 5
Breathe out slowly through your open lips, pronouncing a long, sustained "hiss-s-s" as you contract your abs. Continue expelling the air at a steady rate, even if you begin feel a burning sensation in your stomach. Maintain the expansion in your ribcage for as long as possible to keep the intercostals engaged.
Step 6
Repeat the exercise up to five times. Relax briefly and allow your breathing to return to normal before rising from the floor or chair.
