Abstract
The respiratory system has traditionally not been considered a limiting factor in aerobic performance. However, little is known regarding the potential influence of respiratory muscle training (RMT) during short-term, high-intensity intermittent exercise.
The respiratory system has traditionally not been considered a limiting factor in aerobic performance. However, little is known regarding the potential influence of respiratory muscle training (RMT) during short-term, high-intensity intermittent exercise.
- Purpose
To determine the effect of respiratory muscle training (RMT) on respiratory muscle strength (PImax), performance, dyspnea, and respiratory muscle fatigue (RMF) in intermittent sprint athletes. - Methods
Collegiate soccer athletes (N = 27; 20 male, 7 female) were randomly divided into either a RMT or control condition. The RMT group received 5 weeks of RMT using a commercially available training device (PowerLung Inc.), while the control group received no intervention. Both groups continued to train under the supervision of their coaches throughout the intervention. The Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (IRT), designed for evaluating intermittent-sprint fitness, was used to assess performance. Dyspnea was assessed during and immediately following the IRT. RMF was assessed 2 minutes and 10 minutes after completion of the IRT. - Results
Performance improved by (mean ± SD) 16.7% ± 17.2% in the RMT group (p < .05), while a non-significant increase (5.2% ± 7.8%) was observed in the control group. The RMT group also demonstrated a significant increase in PImax (20.5% ± 15.4%), whereas the control group exhibited little change in this variable (1.5% ± 4.7%). No statistically significant changes in dyspnea or RMF were detected in either group following RMT. - Conclude
Results from this study indicate that RMT improves performance and respiratory muscle strength in intermittent sprint athletes.
