Andrew Huberman, a prominent figure in the wellness industry, is facing sharp criticism from exercise scientists regarding one of his most promoted fitness practices. Despite his reputation and influence, a key aspect of Huberman’s advice has come under scrutiny.
Huberman, who has earned a reputation alongside other wellness icons such as Joe Rogan and David Goggins, is well-regarded for his science-based fitness tips and comprehensive approach to health. His recommendations, including high-intensity interval training, heavy weightlifting, and various recovery therapies, have been largely praised. Huberman’s focus on longevity and optimizing physiological functions, like VO2 max and human growth hormone benefits, has set him apart in the wellness community.
However, Dr. Mike Israetel, a respected exercise scientist, has issued a strong critique of one particular element of Huberman’s regimen: his emphasis on nasal breathing during workouts. Israetel’s critique comes as part of a broader evaluation of Huberman’s fitness strategies.
The Critique
Israetel’s main contention is with Huberman’s promotion of nasal breathing, particularly during intense exercise. Huberman advocates for nasal breathing as a means to enhance cardiovascular performance and regulate inhaled air temperature. This advice has gained traction online, with many adopting practices like mouth taping to encourage nasal breathing.
Israetel dismisses this approach, arguing that “nasal breathing is almost certainly a waste of time” during vigorous exercise. He suggests that if one can breathe solely through their nose while working out, the exercise is not demanding enough. This critique is echoed by the broader scientific community, which finds little evidence supporting significant performance benefits from nasal breathing during high-intensity workouts.
Scientific Perspective
While some studies indicate that nasal breathing might help with hyperventilation, the overall consensus is that it does not substantially improve performance metrics. The scientific community largely agrees with Israetel’s assessment, casting doubt on the effectiveness of this practice for serious fitness enthusiasts.
Conclusion
For those following Huberman’s advice, it may be worth re-evaluating the focus on nasal breathing. Despite Huberman’s success and the respect he commands in the fitness world, this particular recommendation has not stood up to scientific scrutiny. While Huberman’s overall approach to fitness includes many sound practices, this one piece of advice may warrant reconsideration for those committed to optimizing their workouts.
