Environmental Temperature
Body size
Pregnancy
Exercise
Emotions
Age
Generally, larger individuals may have a slower respiratory rate because they have a larger lung capacity.
During exercise, our muscles need more oxygen, so our respiratory rate increases to meet that demand.
During pregnancy, a woman’s body requires more oxygen for both herself and the developing fetus, which can lead to an increased respiratory rate.
Excitement or anxiety increases the respiratory rate as well. This is part of the body’s response to stress, where it prepares for increased activity.
Environmental temperature can affect respiration. For example, in hot weather, your body may breathe faster to help cool you down.
Infants typically have a higher respiratory rate compared to adults. As we age, our respiratory rate tends to decrease.