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Effects of Breathing Training and Nitrate on Exercise at Simulated Altitude
Sponsor: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Summary
This study investigates whether respiratory muscle training (RMT) and dietary nitrate supplementation can improve exercise tolerance under simulated moderate altitude conditions. Exposure to reduced oxygen availability at altitude places additional strain on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, which may limit endurance performance. By combining RMT-designed to strengthen the muscles involved in breathing-with nitrate therapy, which enhances nitric oxide availability and vascular function, this study aims to determine whether these interventions independently or synergistically improve oxygen delivery, reduce physiological strain, and enhance exercise performance. The findings will help identify non-pharmacological strategies to improve physical performance and tolerance to hypoxia in both clinical and operational environments.
Official title: Impact of Respiratory Muscle Training and Nitrate Therapy on Exercise Tolerance in Simulated Altitude
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 40 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
80
Start Date
2025-09-01
Completion Date
2028-08-31
Last Updated
2025-10-15
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Respiratory Muscle Training (RMT)
Participants perform supervised respiratory muscle training (RMT) using a handheld resistive breathing device designed to strengthen the inspiratory and expiratory muscles. Training sessions are conducted 5 days per week for approximately 4-6 weeks. Each session includes a series of resisted breathing maneuvers with progressively increased load as tolerated. The device is calibrated to maintain a constant pressure threshold to ensure consistent training intensity.
Sham Respiratory Muscle Training
Participants use an identical handheld breathing device with minimal resistance, providing no meaningful training stimulus. The training schedule and session duration match those of the active RMT group to maintain participant blinding.
Dietary Supplement: Beetroot Juice Concentrate
Participants consume a standardized dose of concentrated beetroot juice daily for the duration of the training period (approximately 4-6 weeks). The supplement provides a fixed quantity of dietary nitrate known to enhance nitric oxide availability and support vascular and metabolic function during exercise.
placebo beverage
Participants consume a placebo beverage identical in color, taste, and appearance to the nitrate supplement but containing no active nitrate. The beverage is consumed daily following the same schedule as the active supplement.
Locations (1)
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, Florida, United States