Breathing is one of the fundamental principles of Pilates, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. While lateral thoracic breathing is the gold standard in Pilates, there’s an ongoing discussion about whether pursed-lip exhalation has a place in the method.
Could it be useful for beginners?
Does it have a functional application?
And critically, where and when should we incorporate it in a Pilates session, if at all?
Pursed-Lip Pilates Breathing as a Teaching Tool
For beginners who struggle to connect to their centre, pursed-lip breathing may provide a simple way to feel deep abdominal activation. By narrowing the airway, the exhale is slowed down, giving the client more control and awareness over their breath and core engagement. It can also be a helpful technique for those who tend to rush through movements or fail to integrate breath with motion.
However, while it can be used as a tool, it should not become the default way of breathing. Overemphasising pursed-lip exhalation could create unnecessary tension in the jaw, neck, and upper chest, especially in clients who already hold stress in these areas.
Would This Be Done in a Loaded Position?
One of the biggest concerns is whether pursed-lip exhalation should be used when the body is loaded, either with resistance (springs, weights) or when supporting body weight in challenging positions.
In a non-loaded position (e.g., lying supine during basic abdominal work), pursed-lip breathing could be used briefly as an introduction to controlled breath and core connection.
In a loaded position (e.g., during a Teaser on the Reformer or a heavy leg press), it becomes less functional. The body needs a breath pattern that supports movement rather than restricting it. A more natural exhale with open lips allows for better breath flow and intra-abdominal pressure management.
Does It Support Functional Breathing?
One of the main goals of Pilates is to help people move better outside of the studio. From a functional perspective, pursed-lip exhalation is not a breathing strategy most people would use in real-life movement. Walking, lifting, and bending require a breath pattern that integrates seamlessly with movement, not one that forces a restriction on the exhale.
In fact, relying too much on pursed-lip breathing may create a reliance on a technique that does not translate well to dynamic movement. It’s important to ask: Are we teaching a habit that will serve the client in daily life, or are we reinforcing a cue that only works in controlled Pilates exercises?
The Risks of Breath Holding on Exhale
One major risk to consider is that some clients may misinterpret the cue and end up holding their breath at the end of the exhale. Breath-holding, especially on the exhale, can lead to increased intrathoracic pressure, which in turn puts strain on the heart and can elevate blood pressure.
This is particularly concerning for:
Clients with cardiovascular conditions
Those performing strength-based or loaded exercises
Anyone already prone to breath-holding when concentrating
Instead of encouraging pursed-lip exhalation, a more effective strategy is to guide clients toward a fluid, continuous breath, where the inhale and exhale naturally flow into each other without forced pauses.
Where Does This Leave Pursed-Lip Breathing?
Ultimately, pursed-lip exhalation can be used strategically as a short-term tool to help beginners develop breath control and core connection. However, it should not become a habit that overrides natural, functional breathing patterns.
As teachers, we need to consider:
Is this breath cue helping or hindering the client’s movement?
Is it creating more tension rather than reducing it?
Will this translate into better, more natural movement outside of class?
In most cases, an open-mouth, fluid exhale will better support Pilates movement, particularly when the body is under load. Breath should enhance, not restrict, movement. So while pursed-lip breathing may have a place in certain scenarios, it should be used mindfully, not as a blanket cue for all Pilates exercises.
What’s your experience with this? Have you found pursed-lip exhalation to be useful in your teaching, or do you prefer a more natural breath approach? Let’s discuss!
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