Intermittent Hypoxia and Inspiratory Threshold Loading to Enhance Inspiratory Muscle Function

"A single session of IH will last for 45 minutes and will consist of alternating phases of hypoxia(FiO2 :9%-11%) and hyperoxia (FiO2 :22%-38%).~Each hypoxic interval will last for 2 minutes whereas the hyperoxic interval lasts for 1 minute each (15, two-minute episodes of hypoxia and 15, one-minute episodes of hyperoxia)."

Subjects will undergo inspiratory threshold loading using a commercially available Threshold IMT device (Power breathe®). ITL will be administered at an intensity of 80% of the individual's maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP). The subjects will be instructed to take 10 deep, forceful breaths through the threshold device followed by at least 2 minutes of rest. The process will be repeated 4 more times for a total of 5 sets of 10 breaths each.

Subjects will be exposed to a session of sham Intermittent hypoxia.This will consist of breathing room air for 45 minutes through a hypoxicator.