Effect of Short-Term Practice of Breathing Exercises on the Breathing Capacity in Children

Abstract

The breathing mechanism has existed since our birth and accompanies us throughout life. Breathing is an important function in the regulatory process of numerous body functions, its optimization can bring many health benefits. However, many children are unaware of the mechanisms of breathing, namely abdominal or diaphragmatic breathing, and in addition to this, many breathe normally through their mouths. The present study aimed to verify the influence of a short-term breathing exercise program on children's breathing capacity. Twenty-one children aged between 8 and 10 years were selected, from this selection two groups were formed, the control group (CG) with 10 children and the experimental group (EG) with 11. Through a spirometric test, an assessment of breathing capacity (ABC) was carried out for both groups. The GE participated in a program of breathing exercises (BEP) lasting 15 to 20 minutes for 5 weeks. Then, the ABC was performed again for both groups. The results demonstrate a significant increase in the values (p<0.027) of the forced vital capacity (FVC) of the EG, thus suggesting that the application of a BEP promotes the breathing capacity of school-aged children. Further studies should be performed with larger samples and with a longer protocol.