San Diego Psychologist: Breathing Techniques May Improve Athletic Performance
A new study out of Indiana University indicates that certain breathing exercises done regularly can “reduce [athletes'] need for oxygen [and] helps boost performance during endurance sports such as cycling and swimming.”
The researchers “found that inspiratory muscle training (IMT) significantly reduced the amount of oxygen required by breathing muscles during exercise, making more oxygen available for other muscles.”
The article stated that IMT, “Involves the use of a hand-held device that creates resistance while inhaling, requiring a person to make greater use of inspiratory muscles.”
“After six weeks of IMT training, inspiratory muscles required about 1 percent less oxygen during low-intensity exercise and 3 percent to 4 percent less oxygen during high-intensity exercise.”
Although the study involves a relatively small sample size of 16 male cyclists, it is very exciting to see such research that involves breathing associated with biofeedback, sports psychology, and physiological training and rehabilitation. It’s a great start!!
Article available at: http://www.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=639730
Study abstract available at: http://www.abstractsonline.com/Plan/ViewAbstract.aspx?sKey=3ac12429-3e7f-481e-96de-3fc67b36ea2f&cKey=fa65fab0-325a-4cf1-8f4e-e884fae4dd41&mKey={24A58842-A6E4-47C5-889B-B8D603BBBA25}
Dr. Schwartz
San Diego Psychologist