Effect of core training program on respiratory function and inspiratory muscle strength in swimmers

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of core training program on respiratory functions and inspiratory muscle strength in swimmers. 22 male swimmers between the ages of 18 and 22, who do regular swimming training, participated in the study voluntarily. The subjects were divided into experimental (n: 11) and control (n: 11) groups. A core training program was applied to the experimental group 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Both groups continued their normal swimming training. Before and after core training, the subjects' maximal inspiratory muscle strength (MIP), vital capacity (VC), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced expiration rate (FEV1 / FVC) were measured. The respiratory functions of the subjects were determined by using a Spirometer and the respiratory muscle strengths were determined by using the MicroRPM pressure gauge device. The obtained data were analyzed by the SPSS 22.0 program. The paired Samples T tests were used for within-group comparison and Independent Samples T tests were used for the group comparison. As a result of the statistical analysis, a statistically significant difference was found in the respiratory parameters and inspiratory muscle strength values of the experimental group (p<0.05). In the comparison between the groups, a significant difference was found in the respiratory parameters and inspiratory muscle strength values in favor of the experimental group. As a result, it can be said that the 8-week core training program positively affected the respiratory functions and inspiratory muscle strength in swimmers. Keywords: Core training, Respiratory functions, Inspiratory muscle strength, Swimming.