RESP-FIT: A Respiratory Muscle Strength Training Intervention for COPD

RESP-FIT: A Respiratory Muscle Strength Training Intervention for COPD

Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often experience dyspnea, low physical activity, and reduced quality of life. RESP-FIT is a randomized controlled trial evaluating a remotely delivered respiratory muscle strength training intervention combined with mobile health tools to improve dyspnea, respiratory muscle strength, and physical activity in adults with COPD.

This randomized, parallel-group clinical trial will enroll adults with COPD and assign them 1:1 to either the RESP-FIT intervention or enhanced usual care. The RESP-FIT intervention includes respiratory muscle strength training using a commercially available inspiratory muscle trainer, remote spirometry, physical activity monitoring, ecological momentary assessment of symptoms, and a mobile application for monitoring and feedback. Primary and secondary outcomes include dyspnea, dyspnea-related kinesiophobia, respiratory muscle strength, physical activity, lung function, and quality of life, assessed over a 6-month follow-up period. All study activities are conducted remotely.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥40 years
• Clinical diagnosis of COPD
• Ability to provide informed consent
• Willingness to use mobile health devices and apps
• Access to Wi-Fi and mailing address in the U.S.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cognitive impairment preventing participation
• Active substance abuse
• Other significant respiratory disease
• Concurrent enrollment in conflicting COPD or behavioral intervention trials
• Non-English speaking