Running and breathing ratio

[OneHandFlapping]

I've been reading a bit about this, and nearly everyone seems to recommend a 3:2 ratio (inhale for 3 steps, exhale for 2 steps) changing to 2:1 on more intense sections.

I've been doing 2:2 - at least partly because I run to music, which usually has a 2/4 or 4/4 beat. It's very hard to run 3:2 to rock music.

Even on the rare occasion when I run without music, I find the 3:2 hard to maintain. It just doesn't feel natural to me.

Is there any benefit in changing?

To me this sounds like over-analysing! Are you looking at it because you are trying to get faster for races? If not and you are running just for fitness and pleasure then I would just stick with what feels natural for you.

If you are trying to get faster however, then maybe ask the question on the lovely runners united thread, there are lots of people there with far more expertise than me

I just try to breathe! But yes come and see us on the Runners United thread and we can all discuss how we breathe ! We are v friendly if a little crude. V unMNetty so be warned.

Thx both of you. Actually I often lurk on the Runners thread, but it is so fast moving - and you all seem to know each other so well, that I didn't think I should post there.

I will do so though.

You will fit right in, OHF, if you are one to think about breathing and improving your running . See you there soon!