PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your air pumps

THE DIAPHRAGM + INTERCOSTAL MUSCLES

The diaphragm and intercostal muscles are like the bellows of your body’s ventilation system. They expand and contract the chest cavity, moving air in and out of your lungs with every breath.

  • Expand the chest cavity to draw air into the lungs (inhalation)

  • Contract to push air out of the lungs (exhalation)

  • Support efficient gas exchange by moving air to alveoli

  • Maintain rhythm and depth of breathing

  • Work with the nervous system to adjust breathing during activity or rest

DIAPHRAGM + INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for diaphragm + intercostal muscle related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Diaphragm - Large, dome-shaped muscle under the lungs that drives breathing

Intercostal Muscles - Muscles between the ribs that assist in expanding and contracting the chest

Inhalation - Drawing air into the lungs

Exhalation - Pushing air out of the lungs

Respiratory Rhythm - The pattern and rate of breathing controlled by muscles and nerves

WHAT THE DIAPHRAGM + INTERCOSTAL MUSCLES WORK WITH

THE DIAPHRAGM + INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Lungs & Alveoli → Pump air in and out for gas exchange

  2. Bronchi & Bronchioles → Help air reach every corner of the lungs

  3. Trachea, Nose & Mouth → Facilitate the movement of incoming and outgoing air

  4. Nervous System → Controls the rate, depth, and timing of muscle contractions

  5. Circulatory System → Ensures oxygen-rich blood reaches tissues and carbon dioxide is removed efficiently

A HealthY DIAPHRAGM + INTERCOSTAL MUSCLES…

A strong diaphragm and intercostal muscles allow effortless breathing, improve oxygen delivery, and support energy and endurance. Gentle exercise, posture awareness, and deep breathing practices help keep these air pumps functioning efficiently..