Nasal or Mouth Breather? Why the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece Works for Both
One of the biggest misconceptions about the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece is that it’s only for mouth breathers. Since it’s a mouthpiece, some assume that you have to breathe exclusively through your mouth to experience the benefits. That’s simply not true. Whether you prefer nasal breathing, mouth breathing, or a combination of both, AIRWAAV is designed to improve your breathing efficiency—no matter how you breathe.
How the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece Improves Breathing
The AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece is designed to sit on your lower teeth. Its effectiveness comes from two key design features:
This means that regardless of whether you are breathing through your nose or your mouth, your airway is more open, reducing resistance and making each breath more efficient.
The Science: A 20% Reduction in Respiratory Rate
Dr. Dena Garner, PhD, a leading exercise physiologist at The Citadel, conducted extensive research on the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece. Her studies, which have been peer-reviewed and published, found that wearing the mouthpiece can reduce respiratory rate by up to 20% during activity.
Why does this matter?
When you reduce respiratory rate, several physiological benefits follow:
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Improved Oxygen Exchange – A more open airway allows for better oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal, helping to sustain endurance.
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Lower Perceived Effort – Breathing feels easier, allowing you to maintain high performance for longer.
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Reduced Lactic Acid Build-Up – Less breathing effort means less unnecessary energy expenditure, delaying fatigue.
Nasal Breathers vs. Mouth Breathers: Who Benefits?
Many athletes and fitness professionals emphasize the benefits of nasal breathing, as it helps regulate oxygen intake and activates the diaphragm. However, as exertion increases—especially at sub-maximal or maximal efforts—it is completely normal for athletes to transition to mouth breathing to meet the body’s higher oxygen demands.
The key takeaway: The AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece supports both nasal and mouth breathing.
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If you breathe exclusively through your nose, you will still experience the benefit of a wider airway, making each breath more efficient.
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If you switch to mouth breathing at higher intensities, your airway will still remain optimally positioned for improved airflow.
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If you use a combination of both, AIRWAAV adapts to your natural breathing patterns, enhancing your efficiency no matter how you breathe.
Better Breathing = Better Performance
The AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece isn’t about forcing a specific breathing technique—it’s about maximizing your breathing efficiency so you can perform at your best. Whether you’re running, lifting, cycling, or competing at a high level, having a more open airway means:
- More endurance – Sustain high-intensity efforts longer.
- Less fatigue – Reduce the oxygen cost of breathing.
- Better recovery – More efficient airflow can aid in post-workout oxygen replenishment.
So, whether you’re a dedicated nasal breather or someone who naturally shifts to mouth breathing under intense effort, the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece is built to help you breathe better, perform stronger, and push further.
