About this trial
Several studies suggest that inspiratory muscle warm-up (IMW) could potentially affect exercise performance; however, its mechanistic basis is still unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of IMW on lung diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, cardiorespiratory, perceptual and performance outcomes in elite athletes from different disciplines.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of IMW on diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide, cardiorespiratory, perceptual and performance outcomes during high-intensity exercise in elite athletes from different disciplines. The study will be conducted using a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind and crossover study experimental design involving 35 athletes from various sports disciplines, including endurance, strength, skill-based, and mixed disciplines.
Participants will attend the laboratory on four separate occasions. During the first visit, they will be informed about the study and familiarized with the application and measurement procedures. In the second visit, a general warm-up will be performed. During the third and fourth visits, IMW (IMW40% or IMW placebo) protocols will be applied in addition to the general warm-up. Measurements of DLCO, pulmonary function tests, respiratory muscle strength, and gas analysis during maximal aerobic exercise will be collected both before and after the warm-up protocols.
Eligibility criteria
This trial accepts healthy volunteersQualifiers
Age between 18-24 years.
A training history of at least six years.
Regular training frequency of at least four sessions per week.
Disqualifiers
History of smoking.
History of physical disability or acute respiratory or cardiovascular disease within the past three months.
Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 within the past three months.
Pulmonary function measurements outside the normal clinical range (≤ 80%).
Trial design
Crossover
Treatments tested in this trial
Inspiratory muscle warm-up
Other interventionThis study will use a respiratory muscle warm-up protocol set at 40% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) using the POWERbreath® device, as this intensity has been shown to optimally stimulate respiratory muscles. The protocol involves two sets of 30 breaths with a 60-second rest between sets, performed with participants sitting and using a nose clip. Participants will be trained in this technique during the familiarization session and monitored throughout the tests to ensure proper execution.
General warm-up (Control)
Other interventionThe general warm-up (Control) protocol will include exercises such as running and dynamic, active, and passive movements tailored to the diverse sports disciplines in the study. These movements will follow the principles of elevation, activation, and mobilization, focusing on increasing mobility from the arms and shoulders to the lower back and legs. Each session will involve demonstrations emphasizing proper technique and speed, with participants completing a consistent number of repetitions. Researchers will monitor participants closely to ensure correct form and execution throughout the intervention.
Inspiratory muscle warm-up placebo (IMW %15)
Other interventionThe respiratory muscle warm-up protocol will be conducted at 15% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) using the POWERbreath® device. This placebo protocol will involve two sets of 30 breaths, separated by a 60-second rest, with participants seated and wearing a nose clip. Training for the technique will occur during a familiarization session, and participants will be observed during tests to ensure proper execution. The purpose of this protocol is to serve as a placebo, masking the actual aim of the study to enhance data reliability.
Treatment groups
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
Lung Carbon Monoxide Diffusion Capacity (DLCO)
DLCO will be measured using the single breath-hold method with a Quark PFT gas analyzer, following ATS/ERS standards. Each test involves inhalation of a gas mixture (0.3% CO, 0.3% CH4, and dry air), breath-holding for 10±2 seconds, and exhalation. Subjects will perform two DLCO tests at baseline, after warm-up protocols, and after VO2max testing during each laboratory visit.
Pulmonary Functions
Pulmonary function will be assessed using the Quark PFT device according to ATS/ERS guidelines. Respiratory function will be assessed using forced, slow, and maximal voluntary maneuvers. Subjects will perform specific maneuvers for each parameter while seated, with disposable mouthpieces and a nose clip to ensure accurate recordings.
Respiratory Muscle Strength
Respiratory muscle strength will be measured using the Pony FX MIP/MEP device following ERS guidelines. For maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), subjects will exhale maximally, followed by a maximal inspiration against a closed valve. At least three trials with less than 5% variability will be averaged to determine the final values.
Respiratory Muscle Strength
Respiratory muscle strength will be measured using the Pony FX MIP/MEP device following ERS guidelines. For maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), subjects will inhale maximally, followed by a maximal expiration against a closed valve. At least three trials with less than 5% variability will be averaged to determine the final values.
Locations
Sponsors and contacts
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Emre Karaduman
Lead sponsor
Ondokuz Mayıs University
Sponsor institution
Ondokuz Mayıs University
Collaborator
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