I've been running for six months now, but when I go out for distances longer than 5 km, I start gasping for air and lose my breathing rhythm. I know it's important, but I don't understand how to breathe properly during a run. Are there any techniques or exercises?
The main thing is not to get hung up on finding the perfect technique - just find your own rhythm. Most runners breathe through their nose and mouth at the same time, matching their breathing to their pace rather than the other way around; try breathing in for 2-3 steps and out for 2-3 steps - that helps you sync up. If you're getting out of breath, you're probably just running faster than you should be for a long distance; slow down - you should be able to speak short sentences without getting winded. Over time your cardiovascular system adapts, and the problem usually works itself out as you build up your training volume.
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