Breath training and pulmonary function and exercise performance

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the relationship between a breath training protocol based on Yogic Breathing technique and pulmonary function, exercise performance and recovery from exercise performance. Methods: Eight healthy recreationally trained participants completed anthropomorphic, cardiovascular fitness and pulmonary function assessments prior to a five-day breath training intervention. During the intervention length of time in which the participants could hold their breath was recorded. Upon completion of the intervention cardiovascular fitness and pulmonary function assessments were completed. Results: All measures of pulmonary function trended in a positive direction with several resulting in statistically significant differences between pre- and post-intervention assessments. Cardiovascular fitness did improve, but not significantly. Breath holding time did improve significantly from pre- to post-intervention. Conclusion: A five-day YB based breath training intervention can have positive effect on cardiovascular performance, pulmonary function and breath holding time.