Posted by Alan Herold on October 07, 2002 at 09:30:02:
In Reply to: Long Distance Running and Tuba Playing posted by Mark on October 07, 2002 at 09:05:39:
Yes.
Long distance running, as well as short distance running doesn't make you (attempt to) use your full lung capacity. You become very efficient at taking in only what is needed to go a 1 mile sprint, or a 26.2 mile marathon.
I do think that one helps the other, and vice versa. I think healthy lungs from running helps tuba/euph playing on those days when you aren't feeling well... maybe being able to breathe "around" congestion. Also, being able to maximize your capacity helps when running a particularly exhausting hill.
Of course, there is the zen factor of running that helps clear the mind for the day... and that helps focus and maximize the practice session!