Valsalva Maneuver
Holding breath against a closed glottis to increase core stability.
Updated
The Valsalva maneuver involves taking a breath, closing the glottis (throat), and bearing down as if straining. This dramatically increases intra-abdominal pressure, creating a more rigid core for heavy lifts. While effective for stability, it temporarily increases blood pressure and should be used carefully by those with cardiovascular concerns.
Examples
- Breath hold during deadlift
- Creates pressure before heavy lift
- May cause lightheadedness if prolonged
Related Terms
Compound exercises
Put this into practice with exercises from the library.
Power Clean from Blocks
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Power Jerk
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Power Snatch
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Power Snatch from Blocks
Olympic Weightlifting · Barbell
Power Stairs
Strongman · Other
Press Sit-Up
Strength · Barbell
Prowler Sprint
Cardio · Other
Pull Through
Strength · Cable
Common questions
What is Valsalva Maneuver?
Holding breath against a closed glottis to increase core stability. The Valsalva maneuver involves taking a breath, closing the glottis (throat), and bearing down as if straining.
What exercises train the Valsalva Maneuver?
Good options include Power Clean from Blocks, Power Jerk, Power Snatch, Power Snatch from Blocks, Power Stairs. Each links to a step-by-step guide with demonstration images.
What are examples of Valsalva Maneuver?
Breath hold during deadlift; Creates pressure before heavy lift; May cause lightheadedness if prolonged.
Put it into practice
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