As a strength coach, I am constantly reminding my clients to BREATHE. For some reason, as an exercise becomes more difficult, there is a common tendency to hold your breath. It’s not a conscious thought, but more of an intuitive response that you will be stronger by straining your breathing. Just the opposite is true. When you hold your breath, Valsalva breathing, you stop the blood from pumping through your heart. This also raises your blood pressure. This is definitely not a situation that puts your body stronger position. The next time you find yourself in a situation where you feel your muscles are getting tired, try it, breath more. Think: Breathing makes it go! Where the mind goes the body will follow.