Feasibility of Inspiratory Muscle Training in People With COPD Who Decline Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Participants will perform 8 weeks of IMT strength training using the Powerbreathe Kinetic device (Powerbreathe). Training will progress to 60% maximum inspiratory pressure (PiMax) with 30 breaths at high velocity (paced initially over a period of 15 minutes), twice a day, 5 days per week. Tidal breathing without inspiratory resistance is acceptable for recovery between each high velocity breath. Training will be titrated and supervised weekly for the first 8 weeks by a physiotherapist. After 8 weeks training the participants are advised to continue training unsupervised, twice a day, 3 times per week for a further 18 weeks.