Inspiratory Muscle Training and Its Potential Benefits on Athlete Performance

Abstract

Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) has garnered significant interest for its potential to enhance athletic performance by targeting the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles. This systematic review examines the impact of IMT on athletes across various disciplines, highlighting both the benefits and limitations observed in the literature. Evidence suggests that IMT can improve respiratory muscle strength, delay fatigue, and increase exercise tolerance, particularly in endurance sports. Positive effects include enhanced time-trial performance in cyclists and improved submaximal performance in rowers. However, the impact on overall aerobic capacity remains inconsistent, with some studies reporting negligible improvements. The review underscores the necessity for further research to refine IMT protocols and better understand its effectiveness across different sports and athlete levels. Overall, while IMT shows promise, its application should be tailored to specific athletic needs and combined with other training methods for optimal results.