Transformative experience
The Buteyko training has been a truly enriching and transformative experience for me. It beautifully combines clear scientific understanding with practical, applicable techniques that I can confidently use with my patients and clients. Patrick’s way of teaching makes complex physiology simple, engaging, and deeply meaningful.
Online Certification in Buteyko Breathing (CERTBBM)
CertBBM is the gold standard in Buteyko breathing - a globally recognised qualification grounded in decades of clinical research. Train directly with Patrick McKeown, the world's leading Buteyko instructor, and join thousands of practitioners already transforming client health through better breathing.
- LanguageEnglish
- Duration100 Hours
- ScheduleSelf-paced
- Live Online with Patrick7 x 2-hour
- AccessLifetime
- CertificateCERTBBM
Benefits of Buteyko Certification CERTBBM
Transform Lives Through Breath
Help clients regain control of their breathing and experience lasting improvements in their physical and mental well-being, delivering results that can genuinely change lives.
Career Flexibility & Personal Growth
Whether you are a health professional, therapist, coach or wellness practitioner, this certification opens doors to an impactful, flexible and deeply rewarding area of practice.
Improve Client Outcomes
Add a proven, science-backed tool to your practice and deliver lasting results for clients managing respiratory, sleep, anxiety and mental health conditions.
Join The Global Community
Connect with 3,000+ certified instructors worldwide, access ongoing education and marketing support, and list your services on the Buteyko Clinic directory to grow your practice.
Learn a Proven, Science-Backed Method
Grounded in respiratory physiology, developed by Dr. Konstantin Buteyko and refined by Patrick McKeown, trusted by doctors, therapists and coaches around the world.
Instructed by Patrick McKeown
One of the world's leading breathing experts, with over 25 years training thousands of healthcare providers, athletes and wellness leaders globally.
Who is Buteyko Certification for?
Madison Scott, BSDH
"Buteyko is often the first place where we start. I have found that when we are improving breathing and our patients are reaching their goals, they are also in a much better state to start learning and implementing myofunctional therapy.
Because of that, we've had consistently better outcomes. So thank you to Patrick and Buteyko international for just being an amazing resource for all of us."
Dr. David McCarty, MD FAASM
"If I'm breathing through my nose and I have functioning paranasal sinuses doing their thing with their nitric oxide, I am literally able to get more oxygen out of the air I'm breathing.
The other thing that happens with the open mouth breathing posture is that we tend to take larger volume breaths with recovery. You take these very, very big breaths, and that's more likely to bottom out your CO2.
The future of sleep medicine is collaborative. This is too complex a problem for one silo of thought to handle."
Paula Mayne, MSc, RM
"Patrick knows this method inside out. He presented the information in a clear and logical fashion, citing clinical and experimental evidence to support the method. He explained complex (and paradoxical) physiology in a clear way.
The classes were divided equally between theory and practice of the method. Patrick also gave his time freely to make sure all questions were answered. The course materials are exceptional.
The course was well worth the cost and time. I only wish I'd found it sooner."
Lindsay V. Bancosta, DMD, IMD
"Certified as a Buteyko Breathing Instructor, I incorporate breathwork techniques to support craniofacial development, respiratory health, and nervous system regulation.
Multidisciplinary approach empowers patients to reclaim their health through personalized, root-cause-focused care."
Gregory A Rittenhouse
"My career as a Respiratory Care Practitioner and Cardiopulmonary Educator spans 26 years. During that time I cared for patients with a variety of health issues in the emergency room, intensive care, and hyperbaric medicine.
I was trained and certified in The Buteyko Breathing Method by Patrick McKeown and I work with clients using various breathing techniques to overcome the effects of asthma, COPD, sleep disorders, anxiety, hypertension, seizure disorders, and other debilitating health problems."
Alana Inwood
"I'm incredibly passionate about helping women break the cycle of stress and create a new calming, balanced lifestyle in a few simple steps for better physical, mental & emotional health.
Healthy breathing habits is by far the most important pillar as it controls all other pillars in relation to our health."
CertBBM is designed for health professionals, coaches and wellness practitioners working across respiratory health, sleep, dental, children's breathing and general wellbeing. If your practice is primarily in mental health and psychology, our specialist CertPBT may be the better fit.
Wow....what a course!!!
Excellent, learn the skills to empower both your own and others health, the potential to improve your athletic ability and be a healthier stronger version of yourself. I believe everyone should know this!!!
I have been chasing how to improve dysfunctional breathing for almost 20 years and have picked up many things along the way. This course was the last piece of the puzzle but it should have been the first.
The science and the tools
The Buteyko Method has completely transformed how I work with clients experiencing anxiety and breathing dysfunction. The certification gave me the science and the tools.
Fantastic!
It was a pleasure to attend lectures led by Patrick. The amount of theory and practical knowledge (exercises) was well balanced and kept me engaged.
I only wish I'd found it sooner.
The classes were divided equally between theory and practice of the method. Patrick also gave his time freely to make sure all questions were answered. The course materials are exceptional.
The course was well worth the cost and time. I only wish I'd found it sooner.
Curriculum
CertBBM is delivered through a structured online learning portal combined with seven live interactive Zoom sessions with Patrick McKeown. Register anytime to unlock instant access to all course materials, recorded sessions, and exclusive resources. To achieve certification, participants must complete all required modules, assessments, and submit real-world case studies.
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Overview:
Learners are first introduced to the scientific and conceptual foundations of the Buteyko Method. This section develops a strong understanding of respiratory physiology, including breathing mechanics, gas exchange, and the role of breathing in maintaining homeostasis. Learners explore functional versus dysfunctional breathing patterns and how to assess breathing in adults, alongside the importance of nasal breathing. Population-specific considerations, including female breathing physiology, are also introduced. By the end of this section, learners will understand the physiological basis of breathing and how dysfunction presents in practice.What's included- 10 videos
- 10 readings
- 10 assessments
Modules included:
- Module 1 – Introduction
- Module 2 & 2.1 – Respiratory Physiology (Parts 1–3)
- Module 3 – Breathing Pattern Disorders & Assessment
- Module 4 – Female Breathing
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Overview:
This section focuses on the application of the Buteyko Method for respiratory conditions, particularly asthma and related disorders. Learners explore the physiological mechanisms underlying airway narrowing and air hunger, alongside supporting research. Practical protocols and client education strategies are introduced, enabling learners to deliver structured interventions for respiratory dysfunction.What's included- 3 videos
- 3 readings
- 3 assessments
Modules included:
- Module 5 – Buteyko for Respiratory Health (Theory)
- Module 6 – Buteyko for Respiratory Health (Practical)
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Overview:
This section explores the relationship between breathing and sleep quality. Learners examine sleep disorders including snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome, and sleep apnea, as well as contributing factors such as airway instability and nasal obstruction. Practical tools and protocols are provided to support clients with sleep-related breathing disorders. By the end of this section, learners will be able to assess and address breathing issues that impact sleep and recovery.What's included- 11 videos
- 12 readings
- 11 assessments
- Timed sessions
Modules included:
- Module 7, 7.1, 7.2 – Sleep Disordered Breathing (Theory & Advanced Topics)
- Module 8 – Sleep Disordered Breathing (Practical)
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Overview:
This section examines the role of breathing in mental health, with a focus on anxiety and panic disorder. Learners explore the physiological and behavioural mechanisms linking breathing patterns to emotional states. Practical breathing protocols and client education tools are introduced to support individuals in regulating anxiety and reducing panic symptoms.What's included- 3 videos
- 3 readings
- 3 assessments
Modules included:
- Module 9 – Anxiety and Panic Disorder (Theory)
- Module 10 – Anxiety and Panic Disorder (Practical)
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Overview:
This section focuses on breathing patterns in children and teenagers. Learners explore craniofacial development, oral breathing, and sleep-disordered breathing in younger populations. Practical methods for assessment and intervention are introduced, along with age-specific teaching strategies. Learners gain the skills needed to support healthy breathing development in children and adolescents.What's included- 7 videos
- 7 readings
- 7 assessments
Section included:
- Module 11 – Children’s Breathing (Theory)
- Module 12 – Children’s Breathing (Practical)
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Overview:
This section develops the practical skills required to work with clients. Learners are introduced to assessment tools, intake processes, and structured teaching formats for delivering the Buteyko Method. Emphasis is placed on communication, safety, and tailoring interventions to individual needs. By the end of this section, learners will be able to confidently assess clients and deliver structured breathing programmes.What's included- 2 videos
- 7 readings
- 3 assessments
Modules included:
- Module 13 – Practical Training for Adults
- Client Intake Forms, Assessment Tools & Teaching Format
- Contraindications & Safety
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Online Class Schedule
As part of your CertBBM training you are invited to join seven live interactive Zoom sessions with Patrick McKeown. These sessions offer a valuable opportunity to deepen your learning, ask questions, and connect with fellow participants. Live classes take place three times per year and you may attend as often as you wish. All sessions are recorded and available on the training portal at any time.
Next live classes. All times: 3-5pm (Dublin/London/Lisbon).
July 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22 & 23
November 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 & 12
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Theory Module:
- Introduction to respiratory physiology and the science behind the Buteyko method
- Understanding the critical functions of nasal breathing and why they matter
- How to assess breathing patterns across an adult client population
- The relationship between breathing volume, pattern, and overall health
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause to assess a client's level of breathlessness
- Nose Decongesting Exercise to restore nasal airflow quickly and effectively
- Breathing Recovery Exercise to reduce over-breathing and calm the body
- Breathe Light Exercise to gently and safely reduce breathing volume
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Theory Module:
- Understanding Chronic Hyperventilation Syndrome and its relationship to asthma
- Review of Buteyko clinical trial evidence and outcomes for asthma
- Evidence-based breathing exercise protocol for clients with asthma
- Breathing exercise protocol tailored for clients managing long COVID symptoms
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause to track and monitor client progress
- Breathing Recovery sitting to ease symptoms of coughing, wheezing and breathlessness
- Nose Decongesting Exercise to restore nasal airflow and reduce congestion
- Breathe Light in three variations to suit different respiratory presentations
- Maximum Pause for advanced respiratory support and symptom relief
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Theory Module:
- The relationship between dysfunctional breathing patterns and insomnia, snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
- How sleep quality and mental health are directly connected through breathing
- Evidence-based breathing exercise protocol for clients with sleep disorders
- Practical strategies to help clients return to sleep easily after night waking
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause to assess and monitor client sleep-related breathing
- Breathing Recovery sitting to calm the nervous system before sleep
- Nose Decongesting Exercise tailored specifically for sleep apnea clients
- Breathe Light in three variations to reduce breathing volume during rest
- Breathe Slow to reduce sympathetic drive and improve alveolar ventilation
- Breathe Low to improve diaphragmatic recruitment and support deeper sleep
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Theory Module:
- The relationship between dysfunctional breathing patterns, panic disorder and anxiety
- How to design and apply breathing protocols for clients with anxiety and panic disorder
- Tailored approaches for clients who have a fearful or difficult relationship with their breathing
- Understanding the role of CO2 tolerance in regulating the stress response
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause to establish a baseline and track client progress
- Breathing Recovery sitting to quickly calm an activated stress response
- Breathing Recovery walking to build tolerance and reduce anxiety during movement
- Breathe Light tailored specifically to anxiety and panic disorder presentations
- Breathe Slow tailored to reduce sympathetic activation in anxious clients
- Breathe Low to improve diaphragmatic engagement and promote nervous system regulation
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Theory Module:
- How to assess breathing patterns in children and teenagers effectively
- Identifying the root causes of oral breathing — adenoids, rhinitis or learned behaviour
- How to address nasal obstruction and correct oral breathing habits
- The impact of oral breathing on child development including sleep, academic performance and craniofacial growth
Practical Module
- Techniques to transition children and teenagers from oral to nasal breathing
- Nose Decongesting Exercise adapted for younger client populations
- Nasal breathing during physical exercise to build tolerance and habit
- Steps Exercise suitable for children from four years of age and upwards
- Strategies to support and maintain nasal breathing throughout the night during sleep
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Theory Module:
- Safety considerations and contraindications across all client populations
- How to structure a Buteyko programme across multiple weeks for best outcomes
- Key differences and considerations for one-to-one versus small group delivery
- Practical guidance on adapting protocols for adults, children and teenagers
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause as part of a structured client session
- Breathing Recovery sitting as a foundational tool across all client groups
- Nose Decongesting Exercise for use across adult and younger populations
- Breathe Light in three variations for flexible application across client needs
- Breathe Slow and Breathe Low to address ventilation and diaphragmatic function
- Wearing the Buteyko Belt to support optimal breathing posture and diaphragm engagement
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Theory Module:
- Comprehensive recap of all theory covered throughout the certification programme
- Review of key concepts and the science underpinning the Buteyko method
- Open Q&A session with Patrick McKeown to address outstanding questions
- Final consolidation to ensure confidence and readiness to work with clients
Practical Module
- Measure the Control Pause and review assessment technique
- Breathing Recovery sitting and full review of core recovery exercises
- Nose Decongesting Exercise and practical refinement
- Breathe Light in three variations with technique review and feedback
- Breathe Slow and Breathe Low with focus on quality and client application
- Breathing Light during movement for active and athletic client populations
- Steps Exercise for children and teenagers as a complete practical review
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Learning Outcomes
- Assess breathing patterns in adults and children, identifying dysfunctional habits including mouth breathing, over-breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
- Teach evidence-based Buteyko protocols across a wide range of conditions including asthma, anxiety, sleep apnoea, panic disorder and chronic respiratory illness.
- Deliver confident one-to-one and group instruction across respiratory, dental, mental health and general wellness settings with real-world client populations.
- Integrate the Buteyko Method seamlessly into your existing practice with a full suite of professional resources and support available from day one.
- Graduate with the globally recognised BCI CertBBM qualification — a credential trusted by practitioners across more than 50 countries worldwide.
What's included in CERTBBM certification
Comprehensive Online Training Portal
Access a structured and ever-growing library of lectures, videos, and resources — available anytime, so you can learn at your own pace and revisit content whenever you need it.
Live Training Sessions with Patrick McKeown
Join 7 × 2-hour live Zoom sessions led by Patrick McKeown, offering hands-on practice, in-depth learning, and dedicated Q&A time. Repeat access included so nothing is missed.
Certification Guidance & Support
Receive clear, step-by-step guidance on completing the required case studies and assessments — so you always know what is expected and feel confident on your path to certification.
Monthly Live Refresher Meetings
Connect monthly in live sessions with Patrick and a mix of new and experienced Buteyko instructors — a space to ask questions, share experiences, and grow together as a community.
Comprehensive Training Manual
Receive an in-depth training manual complete with exercise scripts, session formats for adults and children, and evidence-based protocols covering sleep, mental health, and respiratory health.
Dedicated Mentorship & Personal Support
Benefit from one-on-one mentorship with a dedicated team member who is available to answer your questions and guide you through each stage of your training journey.
Supportive Online Community
Join a thriving community of Buteyko instructors where you can connect, ask questions, share insights, and learn from the experiences of practitioners at every stage of their career.
Professional Practice Resources
Hit the ground running with everything you need to launch your practice — including client intake forms, insurance guidance, marketing materials, and permission to use the Buteyko Clinic logo across your website and client communications.

YOUR TRAINER
Patrick McKeown
Patrick McKeown is a leading international authority on the Buteyko Method. Educated at Trinity College Dublin, he completed clinical training in Russia with Dr. Konstantin Buteyko and was accredited in 2002.
Over the past 23 years, Patrick has trained more than 3,000 healthcare professionals across 50+ countries and helped countless children and adults address respiratory, sleep, dental, and mental health disorders. He is the author of eleven books published in 16 languages, including three landmark titles The Oxygen Advantage (2015), The Breathing Cure (2021) and The Breathing Cure for Better Sleep (2025).
Patrick's research has been published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, and he is a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Biology and the Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences. He is a regular speaker at dental and respiratory conferences worldwide.
His life's work is simple: empowering others to take control of their health through the science of functional breathing.
FAQs
What backgrounds do people who take the CertBBM typically come from?
What backgrounds do people who take the CertBBM typically come from?
The CertBBM attracts a wide range of professionals — including physiotherapists, nurses, dentists, GPs, sleep therapists, myofunctional therapists, yoga teachers, personal trainers, and wellness coaches. If you work with clients on respiratory health, sleep, dental health, children's breathing, anxiety, or general wellbeing, this certification is designed for you. Prior knowledge of the Buteyko Method is not required.
What level of experience is required before starting?
What level of experience is required before starting?
The certification is designed for qualified health, dental, and wellness professionals. While prior knowledge of breathing or the Buteyko Method is not required, a background in a relevant health or wellness discipline is recommended to get the most from the programme.
How is the CertBBM different from the CertPBT?
How is the CertBBM different from the CertPBT?
The CertBBM is a broad-based certification covering the full scope of the Buteyko Method — respiratory health, sleep, dental, children's breathing, and general wellbeing — suited to a wide range of health professionals and wellness practitioners. The CertPBT is a specialist qualification that goes deeper into the psychology and neuroscience of breathing, with a specific focus on mental health conditions including anxiety, panic, trauma, and depression. It is co-developed with psychologist Alessandro Romagnoli and is designed primarily for qualified mental health professionals. Many practitioners complete both.
I already completed the CertPBT — is there a discount on the CertBBM?
I already completed the CertPBT — is there a discount on the CertBBM?
Yes. If you have already completed either the CertPBT, you qualify for a €200 discount when enrolling in the in-person Cert BBM course. Please contact us at hello@buteykoclinic.com to receive your discount code before purchasing.
I already completed on Oxygen Advantage Certification is there a discount to do a Butetyko Clinic International Certification?
I already completed on Oxygen Advantage Certification is there a discount to do a Butetyko Clinic International Certification?
Yes. If you have already completed Oxygen Advantage Certification you qualify for a 20% discount off our Buteyko Clinic CertBBM or Cert PBT online qualifications and a €200 discount for the in-person instances of these courses. Please contact us at hello@buteykoclinic.com to receive your discount code before purchasing.
How is the CertBBM different from the Oxygen Advantage® Instructor Training?
How is the CertBBM different from the Oxygen Advantage® Instructor Training?
The CertBBM focuses on clinical and therapeutic applications of the Buteyko Method — addressing respiratory conditions, sleep disorders, anxiety, panic, and children's breathing. The Oxygen Advantage® is designed primarily for performance, with a focus on athletic improvement, recovery, and high-stress professions such as military and corporate settings. There is some overlap in exercises, but each programme has its own instructor manual, portal, and community. If you are unsure which is the right fit, contact us at hello@buteykoclinic.com.
Does the CertBBM qualification need to be renewed?
Does the CertBBM qualification need to be renewed?
No. Your CertBBM qualification does not expire and does not require annual renewal or renewal fees. Once certified, you are a qualified Buteyko instructor for life, with continued access to course materials and the option to attend ongoing monthly live sessions with Patrick McKeown.
Can I enroll at any time, or do I need to wait for an intake date?
Can I enroll at any time, or do I need to wait for an intake date?
You can enrol at any time and get immediate access to all course materials. Enrolment is not tied to the live Zoom class schedule — you can begin working through the online portal straight away and join whichever upcoming live cohort suits you. Live sessions run three times per year and all are recorded.
How is the course structured and how long does it typically take?
How is the course structured and how long does it typically take?
The course is delivered through a structured online portal combined with seven live 2-hour Zoom sessions with Patrick McKeown. Most participants complete the certification within three to six months, though this will vary depending on your schedule and pace of study. The course is designed to be flexible so you can work through it in a way that suits your professional and personal commitments.
Can I complete the course at my own pace?
Can I complete the course at my own pace?
Yes — the course is entirely self-paced. You can work through the online modules, resources, and assessments in your own time and revisit any content as often as you need throughout your learning journey.
What if I can't attend the live Zoom sessions?
What if I can't attend the live Zoom sessions?
All live sessions are recorded and hosted on the training portal, so nothing is missed. You also have repeat access to future live cohorts, which run three times per year.
When does the next cohort start for live sessions
When does the next cohort start for live sessions
The next live sessions are scheduled for July 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23. All times 3-5pm (London / Dublin / Lisbon).
Are payment plans available?
Are payment plans available?
Yes, payment plans are available in selected markets. Klarna Pay by Instalment is available at checkout for European customers, and PayPal Pay in 3 is available in the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Australia. Full details are shown at checkout.
Can my organisation pay by purchase order or invoice?
Can my organisation pay by purchase order or invoice?
We can accommodate institutional payments in some circumstances. If you are purchasing on behalf of an NHS trust, hospital, or similar organisation and need to pay via purchase order or require a formal invoice with VAT details, please contact us at hello@buteykoclinic.com before purchasing and we will assist you.
What's included in the course?
What's included in the course?
Your enrolment includes access to a structured online training portal with lectures, videos, and resources available anytime; seven live 2-hour Zoom sessions with Patrick McKeown including repeat access; a comprehensive training manual with exercise scripts and protocols for adults, children, sleep, mental health, and respiratory health; dedicated mentorship and step-by-step guidance through your case studies and assessments; monthly live refresher meetings with Patrick and the wider instructor community; a supportive online community of Buteyko instructors; professional practice resources including client intake forms, insurance guidance, and marketing materials; and access to the Buteyko Clinic App for your clients.
What do I need to complete in order to become certified?
What do I need to complete in order to become certified?
To achieve certification you will need to complete all required online training modules, pass the course assessments, and submit the required number of real-world case studies. Full guidance on each requirement is provided from the moment you enroll.
What support is available after I complete my certification?
What support is available after I complete my certification?
Alongside all course materials you have the opportunity to attend monthly refresher sessions with Patrick McKeown, as well as access to a closed community of instructors. The community element of the certification is consistently referenced by graduates as one of its most valuable long-term benefits.