We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Strengthen my Vocal Cords?

By K. Gierok
Updated: Feb 29, 2024
Views: 15,812
Share

Weakened vocal cords can be caused by a number of conditions, including accident, illness, or other reasons altogether. In order to strengthen this part of the body, a number of techniques can be used. Often, patients are encouraged to work with a speech language pathologist. In addition, developing good posture, participating in breathing exercises, and engaging in a physical activity program can all be effective. It is important for those interested in strengthening this part of the body to be patient — in some cases, results can take months or even years.

Working with a speech language pathologist is very important for those who wish to strengthen their vocal cords. These individuals can provide guidance as to the types of exercises which can aid in strengthening the cords. While patients are not typically required to work with these individuals for years on end, they are encouraged to devote at least a few months to treatment. Once a patient has mastered the techniques taught by the speech language pathologist, they are encouraged to continue practicing the exercises at home.

Developing good posture has also proven effective when it comes to having stronger vocal cords. In order to ensure proper breathing, the lungs should be allowed to expand as needed. This cannot occur in individuals who are slumped or slouched over. Those who wish to develop this part of the body should keep their spine stretched while seated and standing. Strengthening the muscles of the back and core can aid in the development of good posture.

Individuals are often also instructed to perform breathing exercises. Inhaling as deeply as possible, and then exhaling slowly over a 20-second time period has proven effective in the strengthening of both the diaphragm and the vocal cords. This process can be repeated as many times as desired.

Regular participation in physical activity may also help strengthen the vocal cords. Cardiovascular exercise is effective at reducing stress and anxiety, which are often to blame for weak vocal cords. Good examples of cardiovascular exercise include walking, hiking, swimming, or biking. Those who have never exercised before should start slowly, and gradually increase the intensity of their exercise. In addition, consultation with a physician may be necessary to make sure the individual in question is healthy enough to start an exercise program.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By Sporkasia — On Sep 06, 2014

@Laotionne - The reason you hear about performers like singers and stage actors doing voice exercises to strengthen their vocal cords is because they are trying to prevent injury to them. Professionals who make a living by using their voices often have a routine of warm up exercises just like athletes have stretches they preform before they go to work.

Even with the precautions they take, plenty of performers end up having to have surgery to repair the damage their careers did to their voices over the years. I think Julie Andrews' voice is one of the best I have ever heard. I loved her in "The Sound of Music." Well, she is one of the actors who had surgery for some type of vocal cord dysfunction. She spent years performing on stage in the theater and that was probably the cause of her condition.

By Animandel — On Sep 05, 2014

The simple answer to your question, @Laotionne, is yes. Yelling can damage your vocal cords. Most people have at one time or another over used their vocal cords or strained them screaming for whatever reason. Hoarseness is a sign that you are stressing your voice and this is an early warning sign you shouldn't ignore.

By Laotionne — On Sep 04, 2014

Can yelling and screaming lead to strained vocal cords and eventually cause serious damage? I have always heard that constant yelling can cause problems with your voice, so I am wondering is there an real long term damage associated with this.

Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/how-do-i-strengthen-my-vocal-cords.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.