Effects of Endurance Training on the Mechanics of Breathing

Abstract

This thesis reports a study which examined the relationship between endurance training and the elastic and dynamic mechanical properties of the respiratory system. The study was conducted to elucidate the role of this relationship in the training-related increases in dynamic lung volumes such as the maximum breathing capacity, and the mechanical efficiency of exercise and exercise endurance. The total mechanical work of breathing (Wm(ᵣ) and its elastic and dynamic components, were considered to be the ideal respiratory mechanics parameters for this purpose, but ethical and practical considerations excluded measuring these parameters in human subjects during dynamic lung volume manoeuvres and exercise. Measurements were therefore made on an animal model during conditions of physical inactivity and moderately raised levels of ventilation, and the data extrapolated to the conditions found during dynamic lung volume manoeuvres and strenuous exercise in humans.