Breath makes your muscles work more efficiently– something Joseph Pilates figured out 75 years ago but was just published again by the University of Montana in Missoula. In the study, those who exhaled on exertion rather than inhaling or just breathing normally lifted significantly more weight and sculpted their bodies in less time. Furthermore, contracting your abdominal muscles as you exhale on exertion can also help you hoist extra weight (or hold that extra long plank,) Dr. Sheng Li, co-author of the study reported, not to mention safe guard your back and strengthen your core. At Hilliard Studio Method® we hold fast to the concept that a strong core and spinal mobility equals a healthy, toned body. So exhale as you lift those dumbbells or extend from that challenging squat for maximum benefit to your muscles and physique.