It is important for athletes to breath from the diaphragm instead of the rib cage.
Deep, slow breaths improve oxygen flow to the brain and improves calming effects, concentration, and reduces tension.
The Breathing Cycle
An athlete should have a consistent routine of either two or three deep, slow breaths.
The athlete should hold their breath so the movement of the sights slows down and stops when they see a perfect sight picture.
The athlete should be able to take the shot within 8 to 10 seconds after holding their breath.
Approaching The Target in Prone And Kneeling
In the prone and kneeling positions, the athlete slowly breaths out, allowing the sights to align by approaching the centre from the bottom of the target.
Approaching The Target in The Standing Position
To reduce muscle tension in the standing position, the athlete holds their breath and relaxes their muscles, slowly aligning the sights by approaching from above the target.
Breathing from the shoulders or ribs should reduce stability in the position.
Athletes should practice breathing by putting their hand on their stomach and breathe without moving their ribs.
Athletes can also improve their lung capacity and oxygen transfer through physical training like: cycling, running, swimming and other cardio exercise.