A few generations ago, we didn’t live long. A body lasted a few decades (long enough to procreate) and then was gone. As the song goes, we didn’t run outta tread before we ran outta road. Today we need to keep all systems in relatively good working order at least until age 95. The operative word here is “WE.” Nature looks out for us until approximately age 35 and then it is our turn to take responsibility.
There isn’t too much we can do for the big master pumper (the diaphragm) that stretches across the floor of the ribcage. Keeping your spine aligned, sitting properly, keeping a reasonable weight and avoiding too-tight belts is about all you can do for that deeply buried and complicated structure.
However, the thin double layer of muscle (intercostals) sandwiched between your ribs is muscle you are easily able to control. Intercostals are the muscles that raise and lower your ribs to change the chest capacity. Fresh air is drawn in by vacuum that is created by an expanded chest. Stale air is squeezed out when the muscles relax and the ribs drop making the chest capacity smaller.
Any exercise that you do that stretches the torso forward, backward and especially sideways will help to keep your intercostals young.
Be well. Breathe beautifully.
LINK: Sandwich Muscles II
