Ancient Breathing Techniques Match Running’s Heart Benefits, Study Shows
Published on 06/14/2026 at 09:34 | Redaktion boerse-global.de
A meta-analysis published on 12 June in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology has delivered a striking finding: millennia-old breathing exercises lower blood pressure, resting heart rate, and blood lipid levels to roughly the same degree as moderate endurance training. The mechanism lies in conscious respiration's direct influence on the autonomic nervous system – a low-tech intervention that requires no equipment, no gym membership, and no running shoes.
In Germany, around 350,000 people die from cardiovascular disease every year. The authors of the review argue that accessible methods such as controlled breathing could make a real difference, especially for individuals who find traditional exercise difficult.
The Goblet Squat: A Full-Body Workout for Home Gyms
While breath work garners new scientific backing, physiotherapist Will Harlow champions a different kind of efficient training: the goblet squat. Unlike barbell squats, in which the weight rests on the shoulders, the goblet squat holds a single dumbbell or kettlebell in front of the chest. That shift dramatically reduces injury risk, Harlow explains.
The exercise strengthens not only muscles but also bone health and joint stability. Harlow recommends 10 to 20 repetitions per set, choosing a weight heavy enough that the final few reps feel genuinely difficult – a principle known as “reps in reserve” to prevent overloading. Its biggest appeal is simplicity: one piece of equipment suffices, making it ideal for a home workout.
Regional Programmes Tap Into Trends
Local initiatives across Germany are capitalising on the growing interest in accessible fitness. In Kassel, the free programme “06Dreissig” launches based on the Tabata protocol – four minutes of high-intensity interval training using only bodyweight. Starting 15 June, a nine-week yoga series begins in Melsungen and Guxhagen.
In Bad Sassendorf, Claudia Sommer opens a specialised studio on 15 June aimed at people over 50. The focus is on osteoporosis prevention, fall prophylaxis, and functional training – areas where structured exercise can have outsized impact.
How Celebrities Diversify Their Routines
Public figures also embrace variety. Actor Hina Khan blends strength training with rowing and mobility drills. Model Adriana Lima does most of her conditioning through boxing, supplemented by core work and running.
Singer Bernhard Brink, meanwhile, is preparing for a 2027 tour with twice-weekly machine-based strength training plus tennis. The message, irrespective of age – 20 or 70 – is that the right mix of activities delivers the best results.
Disclaimer regarding our articles: No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Information on prices, companies, and markets is provided without guarantee; changes are possible at any time. Stock market transactions can lead to substantial losses. Our articles are created and reviewed in whole or in part automatically with the support of AI.
