Congratulations for taking a step towards improved health and performance with the use of Breathe Way Better. It is very important to us that you have the resources you need to be successful in your journey with this device. The purpose of this article is to help you hit the ground running, by providing you with information about device set up, device maintenance, breathing technique and training tools. We will cover what to do when you first receive your Breathe Way Better device and how you can proceed to see real and lasting results from consistent use. If you are unsure how the Breathe Way Better works, check out this video.
Your new Breathe Way Better device has arrived in the mail!
The first thing you are going to want to do is unbox the device and all the parts. Inside the box you should see a letter from me, Luke the CEO and founder of Isocapnic Technologies Breathe Way Better. You should also see that the box contains the Breathe Way Better device, a mouthpiece, and a rebreather bag.
Next you can give all the parts a quick wash and sterilization. So, put all the parts into a large bowl or vessel and pour boiling water (or antiseptic mouthwash solution of 2:1 water to antiseptic) over them making sure that all surfaces, inside and out, make contact with the liquid. Let all the parts soak for 2+ minutes. Rinse with clean cool water. Then, wipe down with a clean towel and let dry.
Time to start training?
Now you are just about ready to start using your Breathe Way Better device. If you are interested in seeing your results from the very beginning, we highly recommend you do a spirometry test. Most doctors have the spirometer required to do this simple test or you can buy one here! Find out more about how to perform a spirometer test here.
The spirometer will tell you strength of your respiratory system for a single breath. It will be measure in two ways; 1) the forced exhalation volume over 1 second (FEV1) and 2) the accessible lung tidal volume or forced vital capacity (FVC or FEV6). With these two numbers you are empowered to know how big your lungs are and how powerful they are. The ratio of these numbers gives you a good indication of your relative strength given your accessible volume. For example, if you have an FEV1 of 2.6L and a FVC of 3.5L, your ratio score is 2.6/3.5, which gives you a ratio score of 74%. A “normal” value here is between 70-80%. Ratios that yield less than 70% are classified as chronic pulmonary obstructive disorder (COPD). We find that people that who use the Breathe Way Better device routinely as part of their weekly training/habits, can increase both their FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio over 80%. This is a great way for you to track your progress and understand whether you need to focus on building volume or on strength and coordination.
First Breathe Way Better training session
Now you and the device are ready, it’s time to get to work. Just like anything new, starting with good technique is paramount. We want to maximize your ability to coordinate and use your diaphragm as the main driver of your inhalation. This skill will help you to reduce reliance on compensatory muscles in your shoulders, neck and upper chest.
We highly recommend your first session with the Breathe Way Better be the Introductory Workout Program. This will launch you into your training with the Breathe Way Better on the best possible footing for successful changes to your respiratory system. Click here to go to that workout series.
Did you know that we have an app to help you train with the Breathe Way Better? Please download it here.
