Ventilatory Pattern Changes in Professional Cyclists Over an Integrated Ventilatory Training Period: A Three-Case Longitudinal Observation
Abstract
This longitudinal case series documents ventilatory pattern changes observed in three professional cyclists (one WorldTour, two ProTeam) over a period of 4–12 months including an integrated ventilatory training approach (IVTA) combining inspiratory muscle training (POWERbreathe K5, Breathe Way Better) with real-time respiratory frequency/tidal volume biofeedback. Multi-parameter ecological monitoring documented consistent directional changes across all three cases: Rf decreased (−17.8 to −27.8%), Tv increased (+6.2 to +23.7%), with statistically significant inversion of intra-series ventilatory kinetics at both VT1 and VT2 intensities. Pattern stability was maintained under documented physiological constraint in one case. These preliminary observations support the rationale for a randomised controlled trial.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Cardiovascular and exercise physiology
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Research
Sports Performance and Training
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Publication date
- 18 April 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Preprint