Effectiveness of Inspiratory Muscle Training Using POWERbreathe in Amateur CrossFit Athletes on Respiratory Strength and Physical Performance

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how inspiratory muscle training IMT affects the performance of amateur CrossFit4 athletes, focusing on respiratory muscle strength and feelings of fatigue after training. This randomized controlled trial includes 94 volunteers aged 18 to 60 who are enrolled in CrossFit4 programs. The study aims to compare the effects of IMT combined with CrossFit4 versus CrossFit4 alone without IMT, to better understand IMTs role in athletes respiratory strength and exercise performance. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups. The IMT group uses a POWERbreathe4 device to perform breathing exercises at home five days a week for eight weeks, alongside their usual CrossFit4 training. The training includes two sets of 30 breaths against a resistance set at 50% of their maximum inspiratory pressure. The control group continues their CrossFit4 training and performs a simulated version of IMT with a device that does not provide resistance. Both groups attend CrossFit4 sessions at least five days per week. Participants undergo assessments at the start, mid-term 8 weeks, and long-term 12 weeks points. These assessments measure respiratory muscle strength using maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressures, physical performance in various CrossFit4 exercises, a six-minute walk test, and perceived fatigue using the Borg Scale. Data on body measurements, heart rate, blood pressure, and health history are also collected. Training adherence is tracked with a log, and results will help clarify the impact of IMT on CrossFit4 athletes.

Inspiratory Muscle Training in Amateur CrossFit® Athletes