Deep Breathing Squats

by John Pike

Breathing properly is key to accelerate muscle growth, as stimulating the nerve at the muscle causes the brain to release and identify which muscle groups need to grow.

And the secret?

Use the kind of poundage that allows you to breathe fluently, as most super-heavy presses do not allow the lungs to open or close. The result: if you lift too heavy, you end up creating a chirpy breath in and out!

I was happy to see the "Pull Overs" mentioned too. Although considered "Old School", the Pull Over technique (performed properly) is the best-of-the-best when used as a deep breathing exercise.

Some tips: I never allow the weight to hover directly over my head or chest area, as this puts you into the "Dead Zone" - so I begin my descent backwards to a full stretch BEFORE the zone, and pause at the bottom of the movement.

The benefits are endless:

1. You will expand your rib cage (ask Arnold), this adds depth to your side-chest shot.



2. You will hit your intercostals like no other method. This builds freaky definition as the abs become the rib cage.



3. You thicken the muscle directly under your arm pits (Lee Haney). Because most kids neglect this powerful muscle growth movement, they have no front laterals spread.



4. You will get a great energy boost. Unbelievable, yes, but when I am feeling a little pooped, I will do a set or two of pull overs and they refresh my blood oxygen and I go like heck again!