The Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Warm-up on Decreased Diffusing Capacity for Carbon Monoxide After Maximal Exercise in Athletes

The General Warm-up (Control) protocol will consist of activities such as running and dynamic, active, and passive movements, adapted to suit the varied sports disciplines included in the study. These exercises will align with the principles of elevation, activation, and mobilization, aiming to enhance mobility across key muscle groups, from the arms and shoulders to the lower back and legs. Each session will include clear demonstrations to ensure proper technique and pacing, with participants performing a standardized number of repetitions. Researchers will supervise participants closely to verify accurate form and consistent execution during the intervention.

The placebo inspiratory muscle warm-up protocol will utilize the POWERbreathe® device at 15% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP). This placebo protocol will consist of two sets of 30 breaths, separated by a 60-second rest interval, with participants seated and wearing a nose clip. Proper technique will be taught during a prior familiarization session, and participants will be closely monitored during testing to ensure accurate execution. This protocol is designed to function as a placebo, effectively concealing the study's true objective to improve data validity and reliability.

This study will implement a respiratory muscle warm-up protocol at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) using the POWERbreathe® device, as this intensity is considered optimal for effectively stimulating respiratory muscles. The protocol will consist of two sets of 30 breaths, with a 60-second rest period between sets, conducted while participants are seated and wearing a nose clip. Training for proper technique will be provided during the familiarization session, and participants will be closely monitored throughout the tests to ensure correct and consistent execution.