In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle warm-up (IMW) performed before inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in addition to general exercise training on respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, perceived dyspnea intensity and health-related quality of life in patients with COPD.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that leads to increased morbidity and mortality with severe pulmonary complications. The Global Burden of Disease studies have estimated that COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide. The effects of COPD are not only limited to the lungs but also affects other organs and systems, causing loss of strength in the respiratory and peripheral muscles, which leading to a decreased capacity for exercise. Respiratory muscles are the skeletal muscles that can be trained based on the principles of exercise just like peripheral muscles. It is known that while doing exercise training in peripheral muscles, more muscle performance can be achieved by warming up those muscles before the loading phase. In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle warm-up (IMW) performed before inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in addition to general exercise training on respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, exercise capacity, perceived dyspnea intensity and health-related quality of life in patients with COPD.

Participants were randomly divided into two groups as the study group (IMW Group) and the control group (Standard IMT Group). The Standard IMT Group performed only IMT, while the IMW Group performed an IMW protocol for warming the inspiratory muscles before each IMT session. The IMT and IMW were applied using a threshold pressure loading device. The IMT applied as 30 breath repetitions at 60% of the maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP). The intensity of MIP adjusts by two weekly MIP measurements. The protocol of IMW consists of 2 sets of 30 breaths at 40% of MIP, with 1 min rest between sets, using a threshold inspiratory muscle trainer. Then the respiratory exercises and aerobic exercise program performed in both groups in each session. Aerobic exercise program; After 5 min of general body warming, applied 20 min with a load of 4-6 according to the modified Borg scale on the treadmill, finished with 5 min whole body cool-down. All program applied to 3 days a week for 8 weeks under the supervision of a physiotherapist and other days of the week without a supervisor. Demographic features questioned and recorded in the data recording form through a mutual interview in patients who meet the inclusion criteria. All patients evaluated before treatment and after treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosing COPD in accordance with Global initiative for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (GOLD) guideline criteria
• Having a Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) less than 60 cmH2O
• Aged between 45 and 70 years
• Independent mobilization
• Volunteering to research
• Stable clinical condition (same medication routine without taking any antibiotics for the last 3 weeks and/or no acute exacerbation in the last 3 months)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not quitting smoking
• A previous pneumonectomy or lobectomy operation.
• Pneumonia in the last 3 months.
• Any pulmonary infection during the study.
• Requirement for supplemental oxygen therapy
• Orthopaedic or neurological conditions effecting the ability to exercise