catch one's breath
verb
Definitions
To take a break, or rest while doing a strenuous activity, so that one's breathing becomes easier
Example: They stopped for a moment at the end of the set to catch their breath before resuming play.
To take in a breath sharply and hold it, usually in reaction to a sudden shock, or surprise
Example: John caught his breath when he saw the bottle rolling unstoppably towards the opposite edge of the table.