This study aims to evaluate the impact of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory function and swimming performance in competitive swimmers. Given the importance of optimal respiratory function in swimming, this trial investigates whether IMT can improve swimming performance metrics, such as lap times and endurance, and overall respiratory health.
Effective respiratory function is crucial for swimmers, given the demanding nature of the sport. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been shown to improve respiratory muscle strength and endurance in various populations. This study aims to explore the effects of IMT specifically on competitive swimmers, assessing both physiological and performance-related outcomes. To assess whether a structured IMT program improves swimming performance, respiratory muscle strength, and overall respiratory efficiency in recreational swimmers. A randomized controlled trial involving 56 competitive swimmers will be conducted. The study duration will be 8 weeks, with assessments conducted at baseline, mid-point, and at the end of the intervention. The IMT groups will participate in a 20-30 minute training session, 4 to 5 times per week, using power breath device . The training will focus on enhancing inspiratory muscle strength and endurance. This study aims to provide robust evidence on the benefits of IMT for swimmers, potentially informing future training practices and enhancing competitive performance.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
64
IMT is a form of exercise designed to strengthen the muscle involved inhalation, primarily the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. The LVIMT group will perform IMT once daily, 5 days a week, maintaining 60% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) throughout the 6-week intervention. The intervals are typically longer in duration (e.g., 2-4 minutes) with a work-to-rest ratio of 1:1 or 1:0.5. POSITION: rested and seated position. FREQUENCY: more frequency, once a day. 2-3 sessions per week. INTENSITY: Low resistance. Only 60%% MIP. TIME: shorter duration of 10-20 mint.
The HVIMT group is trained twice daily, with the morning session matching the LV-IMT protocol, and an additional afternoon session. The HVIMT group also experienced a progressive increase in intensity, starting at 60% MIP and reaching 80% by the end of the study. LVIMT works for beginner or individuals with limited respiratory capacity while HVIMT is used for individual with high baseline respiratory fitness. The intervals are typically shorter in duration (e.g., 30 seconds to 2 minutes) with a work-to-rest ratio of 1:1 or 1:2. POSITION; Seated upright position. FREQUENCY: more frequency two session per week. 4-5 sessions per week. INTENSITY: high resistance. 60%-80% MIP. (gradual increment the load by 10% every 2 weeks to reach 80% MIP) TIME: longer duration 20-30 mint.
Bahira Active Club.
Islamabad, Federal, Pakistan
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR)
Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) measured through digital spirometer. Three zones of measurement are commonly used to interpret peak flow rates. Normal value of PEFR is (80-100%). Green zone indicates 80 to 100 percent of the usual or normal peak flow reading, yellow zone indicates 50 to 79 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings, and red zone indicates less than 50 percent of the usual or normal peak flow readings.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Forced vital capacity (FVC) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FVC is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal. Changes in FVC from baseline to 3rd week and after 6 weeks day of intervention will be assessed.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Forced Expiratory volume in 1sec (FEV1)
Forced expiratory volume in 1sec (FEV1) measured through digital spirometer. If the value of FEV1 is within 80% of the reference value, the results are considered normal.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Swimming efficiency (SWOLF) score
A SWOLF score is a metric used in swimming to assess efficiency. It combines the time it takes to swim a distance (in seconds) with the number of strokes taken to complete that distance.
Time frame: 6 weeks
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