Abstract
Diverse exercise-induced adaptations following aerobic endurance compared to strength-training programs is well documented, however, there is paucity of research specifically focused on adaptations in the respiratory system. The aim of the study was to examine whether differences in lung function and respiratory muscle strength exist between trainers predominately engaged in endurance compared to strength-related exercise. A secondary aim was to investigate if lung function and respiratory muscle strength were associated with one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the strength trainers, and with VO2 max and fat-free mass in each respective group. Forty-six males participated in this study, consisting of 24 strength-trained (26.2 ± 6.4 years) and 22 endurance-trained (29.9 ± 7.6 years) participants. Testing involved measures of lung function, respiratory muscle strength, VO2 max, 1RM, and body composition. The endurance-trained compared to strength-trained participants had greater maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV) (11.3%, p = 0.02). The strength-trained compared to endurance-trained participants generated greater maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (14.3%, p = 0.02) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) (12.4%, p = 0.02). Moderate–strong relationships were found between strength-trained respiratory muscle strength (MIP and MEP) and squat and deadlift 1RM (r = 0.48–0.55, p ≤ 0.017). For the strength-trained participants, a strong relationship was found between MVV and VO2 max (mL·kg−1·min−1) (r = 0.63, p = 0.003) and a moderate relationship between MIP and fat-free mass (r = 0.42, p = 0.04). It appears that endurance compared to strength trainers have greater muscle endurance, while the latter group exhibits greater respiratory muscle strength. Differences in respiratory muscle strength in resistance trainers may be influenced by lower body strength.
Highlights
Aerobic training is well known to induce structural and functional adaptations of the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems [1]
The purpose of this study was to examine whether differences in lung function and respiratory muscle strength exist between trainers that predominately engage in endurance or strength-related exercise
The purpose of this study was to examine whether differences in lung function and respiratory muscle strength exist within trainers that predominately engage in endurance or strength-related exercise
Summary
Aerobic training is well known to induce structural and functional adaptations of the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems [1]. The respiratory system consists of airways, lungs, blood vessels, and muscles. This network of organs and tissues is responsible for gas exchange between inspired air and the circulatory system where oxygen is delivered to the blood, as well as the elimination of carbon dioxide from the blood to the lungs [1]. Improvements in lung function have been shown in healthy inactive women following aerobic exercise combined with resistance training [2]. Improvements in respiratory muscle strength have been observed following a 4-week high-intensity interval training program [3] and a 16-week resistance training program involving sit-ups and bicep curls [4]. The positive effects of exercise on the respiratory system are not limited to healthy populations, with positive effects found in adults with asthma [5], chronic stroke patients [6], Sports 2020, 8, 160; doi:10.3390/sports8120160 www.mdpi.com/journal/sports
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