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Joseph Pilates believed that better breathing techniques could improve health and mental stamina. Percussive breathing, defined as “breathing with sound and rhythm,” is a vital part of Pilates. Ron Fletcher developed the technique, which strengthens core muscles and helps restore correct posture.
Since breathing is something we do every minute of every day, most of us never stop to think about the meaning of this act. However, Joseph Pilates once referred to the breath as “the rain of life.” He believed that teaching people better breathing techniques could improve their general health and mental stamina. Pilates practitioners say the rhythmic expansion and contraction patterns they have learned from his teachings help take pressure off joints and make it easier to think more clearly.
In Pilates, percussive breathing is defined as “breathing with sound and rhythm.” While regular breathing is rarely noticeable, percussive breathing sounds like an orchestra. The rhythmic pattern of inhaling and exhaling is more challenging than it sounds. When the exhalations are lengthened, you are working to improve your cardiovascular capacity.
The development of percussive breathing techniques as a vital and important part of a regular Pilates practice is credited to Ron Fletcher. In 1971, Fletcher opened a studio in Los Angeles adapting the teachings of Joseph Pilates to create a style of exercise known as West Coast Pilates. Fletcher’s percussive breathing technique was revolutionary in that it provided a way for people to easily monitor and measure the effectiveness of their breathing during a Pilates routine. At West Coast Pilates, the instructors insist on breathing as part of the movement.
There are three basic forms of breathing used with percussion breathing. The pattern for a single breath is a simple inhalation and exhalation. Breathe in, in and out to take two breaths, filling your lungs halfway each time. Inhale, inhale, inhale, and exhale for a triple breath, filling the lungs 1/3 full each time. When practicing percussive breathing, students can take several single breaths, followed by a series of double and triple breaths before ending with another single breath routine.
Proponents of percussive breathing say the practice provides many benefits. It is said to strengthen the core muscles while helping to restore correct posture. Athletes who incorporate Pilates into their training program often report that percussive breathing also helps build stamina.
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