Hi, I'm Ben from Runoft.com. I'm a runner and I'm always looking for ways to improve my performance. And as someone with a collapsed septum, I can't breathe through my nose as well as some people.

Apart from surgery, the only way I know how to open up my nasal passages is to augment my nose externally. And this means nasal strips. But nasal strips are expensive. And to keep from having to sell your kidneys, take out a payday loan or rob a bank, you might want to make your own cheaper version.

In the next few paragraphs, I'm gonna show you exactly how to do that.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Here's what you'll need and what they'll cost.

Adhesive Bandage : $10
An old credit card or a library card: Free
Scissors: $3 or free
Your Nose: Priceless

Total: $10-13

Step 2: Cut the Card for the Bridge Piece and Wrap

First, cut your credit card into a 1/4-inch wide strip. The length varies according to the nose. My bridge piece is usually around 1.25 inches long.

Credit cards are sharp when you cut them and they'll cut into the bridge of your nose if you don't pad them with something. Take the bandage tape and wrap your bridge piece with it and then trim to fit.

Step 3: Cut the Bandage and Place Bridge Piece

I have a fairly large nose, so I make my bandage strip a bit bigger than most might. The great thing about making your own nasal strips is you can customize the size of yours. But if you don't want to look too goofy, minimize the size as much as you can.

Take your bandage tape and cut a strip a little wider than the bridge piece. I cut mine about half an inch to an inch longer than the bridge piece to ensure I tent up as much of my nose as I can.

Then place the bridge piece in the center of your bandage tape cut.

Step 4: Place on Nose

Be sure to clean the surface of your nose before placing the nasal strip. Your nasal strip will not stick for nearly as long if there is an excess of oil on your nose.

Center your nose squarely on the bridge piece and press down on both ends of the bridge piece. Then slide your fingers down onto the top of the bandage to secure the nasal strip. Let go.

You'll notice the bridge piece lift the bandage and subsequently the outer part of your nose. You will be able to breathe easier.

If you want more running advice check out Run Oft on YouTube or Runoft.com.