Why Grunting Can Improve Workout Performance

Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D., assistant professor of exercise science, was quoted in the Women’s Health article “Grunting During Your Workouts May Make Them More Effective.” As he explains, when pushing through a heavy lift or explosive move, your body naturally tries to create core stability. While many people inadvertently hold their breath to do this, which builds internal pressure and cuts off airflow, doing so can lead to faster fatigue and even spike your blood pressure. However, as Rothstein notes, forcefully exhaling offers a smarter solution, helping exercisers to keep blood pressure in check, avoid early burnout, and properly engage core muscles.

“Any time you’re doing something that requires serious core stability or exertion, I’d recommend using that forceful breath,” he says. That includes hitting a one-rep max, powering through the final reps of a tough set, or tackling explosive moves like box jumps or overhead presses. However, for proper etiquette, he recommends that gymgoers “focus on a strong, outward push of air—not a shout.”