Effects of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) vs. Inspiratory Muscle Training on the Recovery After a Maximal Apnea.

Effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training vs. High Intensity Interval Training Program on the Recovery Capacity After a Maximal Dynamic Apnea in Breath-hold Divers. A Randomized Crossover Trial

The aim of this randomized cross-over controlled study was to assess the effects of an 4-week exercise program on the recovery capacity after a voluntary maximal apnea. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive either a high intensity interval training (HIIT), or an inspiratory muscle training (IMT) using an inspiratory resistance device.

It is a multi-center study. 3 different Spanish Freedivers Centres are included in the study (Madrid, Zaragoza, and Barcelona).

For each participant, exercise program started with one or the other program. Hence, both interventions were applied once with the participant randomly allocated to receive the same intervention. The trial included four study visits. Each exercise training program will be applied sessions per week during 4 weeks. Participants received baseline assessments at the beginning of nay intervention, and post-intervention assessments at the end of the fourth week. The wash-out period will be two weeks. After these two weeks participants switched intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Absence of pain or illness
• No changes in cognitive ability
• Over 18 years old.
• Member of the Spanish Federation of Underwater Activities.
• Positive medical examination that allows the diver to practice voluntary apnea.

Exclusion Criteria:

• People with systemic diseases, tumors, infections, pacemakers, history of epilepsy, hydrophobia, pregnancy women, pharmacological treatment.
• To be participating in other physical activities during the experimental research