Land- and Water-based Inspiratory Muscle Training in Young Swimmers

Effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Performance in Young Swimmers: a Comparison of Land- and Water-based Applications

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of four weeks of land- and water-based inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on performance and selected physiological variables in young swimmers. A total of 30 competitive swimmers (22 males and 8 females), who have been training regularly for at least two years, will be voluntarily recruited and assigned to three groups: Land + IMT, Swimming + IMT, and Water + IMT. To compare the effects of different training protocols and evaluate their specific contributions to performance, participants will undergo assessments before the intervention and after the completion of the four-week training period. These assessments will include anthropometric measurements, pulmonary function tests, respiratory muscle strength, 100- and 200-meter freestyle swimming performance, stroke rate and stroke efficiency, as well as cardiopulmonary capacity.

Previous studies investigating the effects of inspiratory muscle training in swimmers have generally applied the intervention in land-based settings and reported positive physical and physiological adaptations. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study has examined the effects of IMT performed in the water in swimmers. This novel approach is expected to better simulate the actual breathing demands encountered during swimming, thereby improving respiratory control, promoting a more efficient breathing rhythm during competition, and enhancing swimming performance.

Inclusion Criteria:

Young competitive swimmers aged between 13 and 18 years.

Regular participation in swimming training for at least 2 years.

Participation in routine training consisting of approximately 20 hours/week of pool training and 8 hours/week of land training.

Being medically fit to participate in swimming training and inspiratory muscle training.

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Exclusion Criteria:

Presence of any acute or chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, or musculoskeletal disorder that may affect exercise performance or respiratory function.

Current upper or lower respiratory tract infection at the time of assessment or intervention.

Use of medication that may affect respiratory or exercise performance.