The BREATH by Bailey Method
We deliver elite performance workshops for competitive cheerleading programs nationwide, blending science-backed breathwork with practical mental health skills so athletes can perform at their highest level while protecting their health.
BREATH by Bailey's approach to elite performance is rooted in three core pillars: mental endurance, trusted relationships, and a balanced work ethic.
Through our workshops, athletes develop practical tools to stay focused, build confidence, and manage pressure in ways that feel sustainable. These skills extend beyond sport, helping athletes grow mental resilience, improve emotional regulation, and nurture a grounded sense of self - supporting their mental strength well beyond competition.
Beginning with the 2026–2027 season, we’ll be expanding to include coaching certifications and parent support sessions, creating a stronger, more connected community around elite performance.
How it works:
For athletes
Elite Performance Workshop
BREATH by Bailey delivers elite performance workshops to competitive cheerleading programs nationwide, teaching science-backed breathwork techniques and mental strength tools. We believe that elite performance is built on on three core pillars: mental endurance, trusted relationships, and a balanced work ethic. The Elite Performance Workshop equips athletes with practical tools to enhance both their mental and physical game. By strengthening mental endurance, relationships, and balanced work ethic, athletes learn to maintain focus and resilience during high-pressure moments. The breathwork practice trains the nervous system to stay calm and regulated, helping reduce anxiety and improve recovery between performances.
The elite performance workshop includes:
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A presentation on the three core pillars of elite performance
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A 25-minute breathwork practice led by Bailey, designed to help athletes develop skills that support each pillar
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A team reflection session focused on group discussion and setting elite performance goals for the season
Why this matters:
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30% decrease in cortisol (the stress hormone) after engaging in breathwork, helping athletes manage stress without sacrificing performance (Journal of Psychophysiology)
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50% enhancement of attention span and mental clarity after practicing breathwork, making it a powerful tool for building mental endurance (Frontiers in Psychology)
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50% increase in oxytocin levels (the bonding hormone) after engaging in breathwork; linked to increased trust and connection among team members
For coaches
Psychologically safe coach certification
Starting in the 2026-2027 season, BREATH by Bailey will require coaches to complete a 1.5-hour training on Psychologically Safe Coaching. At BREATH by Bailey, we recognize that coaches play a critical role in shaping both athlete performance and mental well-being. For our elite performance workshops to truly succeed, coaches must be equipped to create sustainable, high-performing cultures that align with their unique coaching styles.
The Psychologically Safe Coaching certification workshop includes:
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A discussion of three major challenges to psychologically safe coaching: “win at all costs” cultures, unclear communication, and lack of emotional support
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An introduction to the R3 Model of coaching: Regulate, Reinforce, and Relate
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Practical tools and strategies to help coaches apply the R3 Model in their daily coaching practice, fostering safer and more supportive environments for athletes
Why this matters:
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Trust outranks talent level, seniority, and workload as the strongest predictor of win rates. (Harvard University)
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Psychological safety—the ability to openly communicate needs—is the first line of defense against mistakes spiraling into losses. (Yale School of Medicine)
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20-year review shows that the quality of the coach-athlete relationship is a more powerful driver of performance than extra practice hours. (Harvard University)
For parents
Elite performance support session
The Parent Support Workshop equips families with practical strategies to navigate the unique pressures of competitive cheer. Parents will learn how to foster resilience, communicate effectively, and encourage balance between athletics, academics, and personal well-being. Through education, discussion, and reflection, families gain confidence in how to best support their athlete on and off the mat. The parent support workshop includes: A presentation on the three pillars of athlete well-being: parental support, resilience, and balance A guided discussion on common challenges cheer athletes face, with strategies for supporting them through high-pressure moments Tools and language for parents to help their athletes build resilience, manage stress, and stay motivated throughout the season
Why this matters:
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Lower risk of athlete burnout: Research shows that supportive parenting styles reduce rates of youth sports burnout by nearly 40% (Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology).
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Improved athlete resilience: Positive family communication increases athletes’ ability to cope with stress and setbacks (Journal of Applied Sport Psychology).
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Enhanced family connection: Families who engage in structured reflection practices report a 60% increase in trust and connectedness (American Psychological Association).
BREATH by Bailey Alternative support pathways
BREATH by Bailey offers individual consultation calls for teams and programs to assess overall program health, as well as personalized 1:1 breathwork sessions and support tailored for athletes, coaches, and parents.
“This workshop allows athletes to begin the season on the right foot and gain mental strength that we will be able to use for the rest of our lives."
Marist Varsity Cheerleader, 2025 IHSA Large Varsity State Champions
Let's work together
Not sure where to start? Schedule a consultation call today