Learning breathe properly while running will make you comfortable while you exercise and ensure that your body is taking in the proper amount of oxygen while releasing as much carbon dioxide as possible. Over time you will find your body is able to more efficiently function and your overall endurance will increase.
Breathe Slowly
While running it is best to breathe slowly. Most runners recommend taking one full breath (one inhalation and one exhalation) for every four to eight steps. It's important to breathe naturally, inhaling slowly over the first four steps and exhaling slowly over the second four steps. If you breathe quickly and try to hold your breath, you'll eventually find yourself gasping for air.
New runners often find this technique a bit difficult to master. If you find this method challenging, try practicing while walking first, then work yourself up to a run.
Posture
Our natural inclination when running is to bend our arms, holding our hands up in front of our chests. We also tend to hunch our bodies down and forward just a little bit. If you were a boxer, this technique would be perfect for protecting yourself but as a runner you are adding unneeded tension to your body. Relax your body by holding your head up high, raising your rib cage and allowing your arms and shoulders to be relaxed as you run. Keep your hands relaxed as well. Instead of clenching your fists try shaking out your hands a bit to keep your muscles loose and relaxed.
You might be wondering what your arms and overall posture have to do with your ability to breathe. If you keep your upper body relaxed, your diaphragm, intercostal muscles (the muscles between your ribs), and lungs will have an easier time expanding and contracting as you run. If you tense the muscles in your upper body you will restrict the movement of those muscles and limit your ability to take in an ample supply of fresh oxygen.
Nose and Mouth Breathing
Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth while running. Breathing in through your nose will allow you to regulate the amount of oxygen you take in and will prevent you from taking large, gulping breaths. Breathing out through your mouth will allow you to force out as much carbon dioxide from your lungs as possible.
If you run during the cooler fall and spring months you will find that this technique is more comfortable than breathing cold air in through the mouth as well. Don't forget to carry a scarf to cover your mouth and nose if you run in very cold weather.
Belly Breathing
Attempt to breathe from your diaphragm (or your belly) instead of just from your chest. Chest breathing tends to be very shallow, while diaphragm breathing is usually much deeper. Taking deeper breaths will allow you to take in and absorb more oxygen during your run.
Stop Thinking about Breath
The worst thing you can do while running is spend your entire time focused on your breath alone. The more you focus on it the more your body will tense as you overanalyze your breath patterns and worry about whether you are practicing proper technique. Run a bit slower and relax. In the end you'll find that the right breathing pattern for you will develop naturally.
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