If you’ve ever found yourself gassing out halfway through a set of mace swings — even with a light weight — there’s a good chance your breathing pattern is off. Just like lifting or running, how you breathe during mace training directly affects your endurance, rhythm, and overall performance.
At CK Maceworks, we talk a lot about mechanics, grip, and order position — but breathing is just as essential. Getting it right helps you stay calm, move smoother, and extend your sets without burning out.
*YouTube Video below if you are someone who prefers audio/visual.
The Rhythm That Works
Through years of swinging, we’ve found a breathing rhythm that feels the most natural and efficient:
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Inhale as you cast the mace behind you
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Exhale as you pull it over to the front
This creates a steady, repeatable pattern that matches the mace’s momentum. The inhale sets you up for the swing, filling your lungs and bracing your trunk, while the exhale helps you control the pull and stabilize through your shoulders and core.
When done correctly, it feels effortless — almost like the mace and your breath are moving in sync.
Why It Matters
Breathing like this does more than just keep you from running out of air. It also helps:
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Control your heart rate: Smooth, intentional breaths prevent panic breathing and early fatigue.
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Extend your sets: Better oxygen flow means you can train longer without breaking rhythm.
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Improve control: The exhale on the pull helps reinforce your timing and trunk stability.
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Stay calm under load: Even as intensity ramps up, you’ll maintain composure and precision.
Whether you’re performing 10 swings or 100, a consistent breathing rhythm keeps you grounded and in control.
Try It in Your Next Session
Next time you swing, pay attention to your breath. Don’t force it — just start with a simple rhythm:
Inhale on the cast, exhale on the pull.
You’ll feel your movements sync up almost immediately. Over time, that breathing pattern becomes second nature, allowing you to train harder, longer, and more efficiently.
If you’re still getting used to the mace, start light, slow it down, and focus on this rhythm until it feels automatic. Once it clicks, you’ll notice the difference — not just in endurance, but in the overall flow of your swings.
💥 Ready to take your mace training further?
Check out our handcrafted, American-made adjustable maces and clubs — built to grow with you and your training.
(Video version of this post below — featuring a live demo of the breathing pattern in action.)