The effects of inspiratory muscle training in swimmers

Abstract

Background: Swimming is one of the most popular Olympic sports, and new ways to improve performance are constantly being searched for. Due to the submersion of the body in water and the unique breathing pattern, many changes in respiration occur during swimming. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been commonly used in clinical settings and has recently been introduced to the sporting world to improve lung function and exercise tolerance. The author hypothesized that IMT may help to acclimate swimmers to the increased load put on the respiratory system during training, and aid in their sport performance. Research question: What are the effects of inspiratory muscle training on competitive swimming performance and swimmer’s lung function? PEO elements: The population studied (P) was competitive swimmers. The exposure (E) was inspiratory muscle training. The final outcome (O) focused on lung function tests and swimming time trials. Inclusion and Exclusion criteria: Inclusion criteria: ages 13-25, competitive swimmers, regular swim training, studies published between 2008-2023, Sham IMT control group, coach supervised training, peer reviewed studies, outcome measures – time trails (TT), spirometry for VC and FEV1 and MIP. Exclusion criteria: underlying respiratory/musculoskeletal diseases, respiratory training in the past 1 year, fin swimmers, divers, scuba divers, expiratory muscle training, full text unavailable, non-English articles. Outcomes of Search: Searches were done using 6 databases to identify relevant studies. A total of 4 RCTs involving 72 individuals were included in this PEO study. Methods of the Appraisal used: A CASP tool was used to assess the studies found and critically appraise the quality of the study method and results. Results: 3 out of 4 studies found improved results in one or more outcome measure. One study found no significant improvement with the introduction of IMT. Conclusion: Although the results were not definite, it may be stated that IMT can help improve swimming performance and lung function in amateur swimmers, based on the findings. However, further research into the topic is needed for a definite answer to the research question. Implications and Recommendation: Further research with larger sample sizes and different IMT protocols is required to provide reliable and consistent results.