Can Projecting Your Voice Strengthen Your Vocal Chords?

People are born with a vocal chords ranging in size from thin to thick.  A  thin vocal chord produces a higher pitched voice.  A thicker vocal chord causes a lower pitched voice.  The size of the vocal chords cannot be changed.  However, there are basic techniques that can be used to strengthen and tighten  the vocal chords which allow for greater range of voice.

1 - Singing is considered to be a way to strengthen your vocal chords.  Practice singing your favorite song, alternating between a moderate,  low and loud voice.  Project to the back of the room.  When I first began singing in choirs, my singing voice was an unquestionable alto.  Over the years, I was challenged to sing tenor in smaller choirs.  I found that experience has helped to lower the pitch of my speaking voice and given me greater range in my singing.  Lower voices tend to project louder.

2 - Deep breathing exercises help you to relax which often allows you to project your voice and speak louder.  When you are nervous, you tend to tighten the upper portion of your body.  Breathing becomes more shallow and less air flows through the airways.  Your voice gets tight and becomes more high pitched, inhibiting the ability to project.  Take a deep breath and slowly release through a count of 10.  Repeat as needed.

Vocal chords are a delicate organ and can be damaged if not taken care of properly.  Techniques designed to help with projecting your voice can help to strengthen your vocal chords over time.  However, if you believe you have a medical issue, please seek medical advice.