Out of breath while singing? These 5 exercises can help
What's the story
Singers, pay attention! If you want to hit those long notes like a pro, you need to master your breathing techniques.
A little breath control goes a long way - you'll be able to sing better and longer, all while sounding like a superstar.
In this article, we're diving into five breathing exercises that will help you build a stronger, more sustained voice.
Diaphragm control
Diaphragmatic breathing for power
Diaphragmatic breathing is key for singers. Using the diaphragm instead of the chest allows for deeper breaths and greater control.
To practice, lie down with a book on your belly and make the book rise as you breathe in and out, without moving your chest.
This strengthens your diaphragm for those big notes you want to hit and hold!
Breath stamina
The Farinelli exercise for stamina
Named after the renowned 18th-century opera singer, the Farinelli exercise is a three-part breathing technique emphasizing inhale, hold, and exhale phases.
Simply inhale for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, then exhale slowly for eight counts.
Slowly increase these counts as you get comfortable.
This exercise enhances lung capacity and control over breath support.
Exhalation control
Ssssss practice to control exhalation
The ability to regulate your exhalation is crucial for maintaining long phrases in singing.
One easy exercise is to take a deep breath and then create a long Ssssss sound, like air escaping from a tire.
Aim to make the Ssssss sound last as long as you can by applying steady pressure.
This exercise will improve your airflow control and help you learn how to conserve your breath while singing.
Smooth phrasing
The straw technique for smooth phrasing
Singing through a straw is a technique that helps to control air pressure and flow, resulting in smoother phrasing and transitions between notes.
Simply hold a small straw, inhale deeply through your nose, then exhale through the straw while maintaining the seal with your lips.
You can also hum or sing notes through the straw to further train your breath control during vocalization.
Yoga integration
Yoga breathing for overall enhancement
Yoga provides a multitude of breathing exercises that are advantageous for singers, as they improve lung capacity, relaxation, and diaphragmatic strength.
Practices such as Pranayama (yogic breathing) emphasize deep inhalations and regulated exhalations, mirroring the techniques employed in singing.
By integrating yoga into your daily regimen, you will experience notable enhancements in breath control and vocal sustain.