This project addresses the connection between oxygen uptake and exercise tolerance at sea level and extreme altitudes. This will be done by measuring the effects of Respiratory Muscle Training (RMT) a..
This project addresses the connection between oxygen uptake and exercise tolerance at sea level and extreme altitudes. This will be done by measuring the effects of Respiratory Muscle Training (RMT) and dietary nitrate supplementation interventions. We hypothesize that these interventions will improve exercise performance at sea level and extreme altitudes by increasing respiratory muscle fitness and therefore improving the ability of the body to distribute oxygen during maximal exercise. The project will be conducted by having study participants complete Critical Power Tests (CPT) to examine changes in their maximum exercise tolerance throughout a 5-week trial, with a goal of having 40 participants in the study. The success of the interventions will be further evaluated by measuring oxygen saturation in the muscles using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and measuring the thickness of the diaphragm using a Dopler Ultrasound. Participants will also complete the CPT in a hypobaric chamber set to 16,000 feet to simulate the altitude at which supplemental oxygen is recommended to counteract the adverse effects of low oxygen content. The results of this study will highlight the relationship between respiratory muscle fitness and exercise tolerance at sea level and extreme altitudes.
