Possibility of improvement of endurance performance by respiratory muscle training

Abstract

Recently, with the nationwide marathon boom, respiratory muscle training for endurance athletes has been brought to public attention. However, the effectiveness of respiratory muscle training for endurance athletes is controversial. So far, some have reported that the training improved endurance performance, while others have reported that the training did not, although it did improve respiratory muscle functions. In this article, we review the studies related to respiratory muscle training and discuss the effects. © 2009, The Society of Physical Therapy Science. All rights reserved.