The Valsalva Maneuver & Spinal Stability

The Valsalva maneuver — taking a breath and bracing the core before a heavy lift — increases intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). This creates a rigid cylinder around the spine, reducing compressive forces and improving force transfer.

Studies show that lifters who use proper bracing can squat 10–15% more weight with the same spinal load. The breath is not optional. It’s a mechanical necessity.

The old coaches didn’t know the physiology. They just knew: “Big breath, big lift.” Science caught up later.