The effect of combined core and respiratory muscle exercises on respiratory function

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of combined core and instrumented respiratory muscle exercises on respiratory functions. Forty licensed basketball players aged 13-14 participated in the study. Participants were divided into four equal groups: the control group (KG), core exercise group (CG), instrumented respiratory muscle exercise group (SG), and combined exercise group (KEG). All groups continued regular basketball training throughout the study. Respiratory functions of the participants were assessed twice using a spirometer device, before the start of the exercises and after four weeks of exercises. To examine the results of different protocols (KG, CG, SG, and KEG), pre and post-test measurements, and protocol*time interaction effect, repeated measures two-way ANOVA test was employed. While there was no significant difference in lung volumes and capacities among the groups, the highest percentage improvement in all parameters except maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) was observed in the KEG. Additionally, all groups showed a percentage improvement in respiratory parameters. In conclusion, respiratory muscle exercises can be considered an alternative method for improving athletes' respiratory functions. Furthermore, it is suggested that conducting the study with the same procedure and a larger sample size may increase the likelihood of observing interactions between groups.