How do you breathe when you work out?

Always always always inhale through your nose and exhale through the mouth. By inhaling through the nose, you will be utilizing Nitric Oxide, which helps open your blood vessels and will improve the oxygen consumption rate in your lungs by nearly 20% more than when you mouth breathe.

How does breath holding increase the oxygen in your blood and improve athletic performance?

When you hold your breath, your brain sends a signal to your spleen - which is your "blood bank" - to release more oxygen into your bloodstream because you affront inhaling any. After about 15 seconds of a breath hold, inhale (through the nose) and return to normal breathing for a minute or so. When you complete 6-8 rounds of that, you will have the amount of oxygen in your blood that is equivalent to training at a high altitude. This is where you will get an increase in energy, muscular endurance and focus.

When is it not safe to do breathwork exercises?

When you are behind the wheel or in a body of water (even the bathtub). Dizziness and light-headedness are a few of the side effects that could happen when you do breathwork exercises. You don't want to be driving or in a pool and become dizzy or light-headed.

Team — Breathletics

Mike Kolander – CEO / Founder

Mike Kolander's journey in the fitness industry began in 1996 after graduating from The University of Illinois/Chicago with a B.S. in Kinesiology. With over 35,000 clinical hours and multiple certifications in N.A.S.M, Crossfit, and Breathwork Facilitation, Mike has worked with diverse clientele, including the Chicago Blackhawks, professional athletes, senior citizens, therapy-based rehab patients, military personnel, and more. Specializing in personalized wellness prescriptions, Mike ensures each client surpasses their goals safely and efficiently.

Embracing Breathwork Facilitation has been transformative for Mike, professionally and personally. Certified as an Advanced Instructor through Oxygen Advantage and a Breathe Instructor through The Breathing Class, Mike's expertise is recognized by the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF and The Global Professional Breathwork Alliance. Founded by Dr. Belisa Vranich, this certification emphasizes science-based breathwork and facilitation, empowering individuals and groups to harness the benefits of proper breathing techniques.

Geoff Shell – Partner, Website/Content Producer

Geoff Shell is a dynamic business partner at Breathletics, where he serves as the Website and Content Producer, shaping the brand's visual identity and digital presence. With expertise in web development and content creation, Geoff ensures Breathletics maintains a cutting-edge platform for athletes, trainers, and wellness enthusiasts.

Beyond Breathletics, Geoff's diverse background includes notable achievements as a composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, particularly on piano. His seamless transition into the business and tech world is evident in his role as founder and CEO of Modal Media Group, a branding and media consultancy offering innovative solutions in design, video production, and marketing.

Geoff is also the co-founder of Rooted Culturist, a brand promoting personal growth and social impact through events, content, and products. His commitment to community and sustainability drives his creative contributions, fostering connections and positive change.

Marcus Laxgang – Chief Financial Officer

Marcus Laxgang is an accomplished financial expert and owner with a robust background in the financial services industry. With a diverse skill set encompassing coaching, sales management, event coordination, team building, and public speaking, Marcus has established himself as a versatile and effective leader.

As the President of Marketing at Laxco Inc/Cash Flow Advisors B2B, Marcus has demonstrated his business prowess and leadership capabilities. His journey in soccer began during his college years at Indiana University, where he showcased his athletic talents. Despite considering a professional soccer career, Marcus opted for a promising career opportunity after college.

While his professional path led him away from the field, Marcus remained deeply involved in soccer, coaching teams from youth to high-level national teams. His coaching experience, spanning over a hundred teams, has solidified his reputation as a skilled mentor and developer of young talent. Alongside his coaching endeavors, Marcus's family members have also made their mark in sports, further fueling his passion for athletics. Marcus brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role as Chief Financial Officer.

Our Team

Mike Kolander – CEO / Founder

Geoff Shell – Partner, Website/Content Producer

Marcus Laxgang – Chief Financial Officer

Get started with Breathletics, today.