Effect of respiratory muscle strengthening with breathing exercises on ventilatory functions, aerobic fitness and their association with performance in elite rowers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of RMT on ventilatory parameters, aerobic fitness and rowing ergometer performance among professional rowers in Sri Lanka. Twenty national male rowers, aged 20-35 years were grouped randomly into an experimental (n=11) a control (n=9) group. Prior study, baseline measurements functions, (VO2max) assessed by portable spirometer, 2000m 5000m Monark cycle respectively. Subsequently, group prescribed program comprising breathing exercises while was general exercise for 12 weeks after which all above parameters again. The association with functions pearson correlation. There significant improvements PIF, FVC, VO2max 12-weeks (p<0.05) only VO2 max improved non-significantly (p>0.05). Compared control, PIF significantly (p<0.05). higher performed better at whereas group, associated ergometer. suggests that had improving some resulting performance.