Mechanics of breathing

Explain the mechanics of inhaling at rest, detailing the roles of the intercostal muscles, rib cage, and diaphragm.
Explain the mechanics of exhaling at rest, detailing the roles of the intercostal muscles, rib cage, and diaphragm.
Describe how lungs expand more during exercise (inspiration) due to the use of pectorals and sternocleidomastoid muscles.
Describe how the rib cage is pulled down quicker during exercise (expiration) to force air out faster using the abdominal muscles.
Understand that changes in air pressure cause inhalation and exhalation.

What you need to know