RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07103291

Effects of Isocapnic Respiratory Muscle Endurance Training in Healthy Adults

The Effects of Isocapnic Respiratory Muscle Endurance Training on the Multidimensional Components and Neurophysiological Mechanisms of Exertional Breathlessness in Healthy Adults

Sponsor

University of British Columbia

Enrollment

32 participants

Start Date

Aug 4, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Healthy Adults

Summary

Respiratory muscle training (RMT) strengthens breathing muscles and may improve exercise performance and reduce breathlessness. However, different training methods and devices create controversy in the field. Two main types of RMT exist: inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and respiratory endurance training, like voluntary isocapnic hyperpnea (VIH). While IMT is well-studied, the impact of VIH on breathlessness remains unclear. This study will use the Canadian-developed BreathWayBetter device to examine how 5 weeks of VIH affects breathing discomfort and muscle function. Findings may help personalize RMT for athletes and clinical patients, improving respiratory care and exercise tolerance.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 55 Years

Inclusion Criteria7

-55 years of age (inclusive)
Male or Female (biological sex)
Body mass index greater than 18 or less than 30 kg/m2
Normal pulmonary function: FEV1/FVC > 0.70 and FEV1 ≥ 80%
Able to read and understand English
Regularly trains and/or competes at a regional, national, or international level as a road cyclist or triathlete
Access to a device with the capability to download the Isocapnic app (Apple IOS or Google Play/Android) or the ability to use the Web Based application.

Exclusion Criteria6

Currently smoke, vape, or use cannabis, or have a history of frequent smoking, vaping or cannabis use
History of, or current symptoms of cardiopulmonary (i.e., lung and/or heart) disease (excluding controlled asthma)
Heart problem; a serious infection within the body; a neuromuscular (nerve to muscle) or musculoskeletal (muscle, ligament and/or bone) disorder; or other health problem that will be made worse with exercise testing
Contraindications to exercise testing defined as anything that would prevent exercise under proper and safe conditions (e.g. a problem with the heart or lungs, muscle or bone injury, a serious infection)
Currently pregnant
Required to read and understand English due to the nature of the consent form and study materials, including questionnaires and training instructions, which are only available in English.