Via Lob and Smash,
Key points:
- Iga Swiatek was seen practicing with tape over her mouth in preparation for the National Bank Open
- Having tape over her mouth helps force her to breathe only through her nose and increases oxygen intake
- This training method aims to improve cardiovascular stamina and help Swiatek perform better in high-stress matches
Iga Swiatek, the top-ranked WTA player, was seen practicing with tape over her mouth in preparation for the National Bank Open. While some may find it strange, this practice actually has a scientific basis. Breathing through the nose instead of the mouth allows for more oxygen to reach the bloodstream, increasing cardiovascular stamina and reducing fatigue in long and high-stress matches. However, this training method should only be attempted by individuals who are already conditioned in proper breathing techniques. Swiatek’s dedication to finding an advantage over her opponents demonstrates the importance of even the smallest details in the highly competitive world of tennis.
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