Breathing lessons

I've joined a running group in preparation for my first 5k run in June.  It's been challenging and that's why, in addition to my regular workouts, I decided to give running a try. During our last practice the air was still and thick and in the middle of the course I had a pain in my side and I was ready to stop.  Our coach reminded me to breath correctly and slow down my pace.  It worked immediately.  As I ran on I could hear his voice, "Slow and steady beats rough and ready." The pain was gone and I could finish the practice.