Effect of combined Respiratory Muscle Training on Sleep and Cardiovascular Biometrics in a non-clinical cohort
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Study objectives
Sleep disruption is a growing health problem, affecting a significant portion of the adult population worldwide. Insufficient sleep has various short- and long-term consequences, including an elevated risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Previous research has demonstrated that resistive respiratory muscle training (RMT) can enhance both sleep quality and cardiovascular health in individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, underscoring its efficacy as a non-pharmacological therapeutic strategy for this patient group. However, the effects of RMT on sleep and cardiovascular parameters have not been investigated in non-clinical populations.
Methods
This prospective study investigated the effects of combined inspiratory and expiratory RMT (cRMT) on sleep parameters and cardiovascular biometrics, specifically heart rate variability (HRV), in a non-clinical adult cohort. Utilizing a wearable device for remote data collection, this randomized controlled trial included 67 participants divided into good and poor sleeper groups based on historical sleep data. During a five-week intervention period, participants in the intervention group underwent cRMT using a Breather Fit device, while control group participants did not receive the intervention.
Results
Study findings demonstrate a significant increase in overnight HRV metrics during the intervention period compared to the baseline, indicating improved autonomic cardiac function. However, no significant changes were observed in any parameters of sleep quality.
Conclusion
These results suggest that cRMT may enhance cardiovascular health by improving autonomic function in non-clinical populations without directly affecting sleep quality. This study underscores the potential of RMT as a non-pharmacological intervention to improve cardiovascular health, warranting further investigation in future studies.
Brief summary
Current Knowledge/Study Rationale: Insufficient, disrupted, or ineffective sleep is prevalent and can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). While respiratory muscle training has been found effective in improving sleep and cardiovascular parameters in sleep apnea, its effect in healthy people with or without sleep issues is unknown.
Study Impact: This study demonstrates significant benefits of RMT on CVD metrics including HR and HRV, indicating improved autonomic cardiac function. These findings highlight the potential of RMT as a non-pharmacological intervention to improve cardiovascular health.
