Which breathing workout builds a stronger diaphragm?
NCT ID NCT07795905
First seen Aug 31, 2026 · Last updated Sep 04, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This trial tests three methods for strengthening the diaphragm, the main breathing muscle, in healthy adults aged 18 to 35. Participants are randomly assigned to train with an abdominal air pressure device, abdominal weights, or standard breathing exercises. They train three times a week for eight weeks. Researchers measure diaphragm thickness and perceived effort to see which method works best.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Three training methods: abdominal air pressure resistance training, abdominal weight training, and breathing exercises
- What this could lead to
- If one method proves superior, it could point toward more effective breathing training for rehabilitation and athletic performance.
- What could go wrong
- The trial is small and early, so results may not apply broadly. Training is short-term, and any gains might not last or translate to real-world benefits.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 42 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Expected to start
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Aug 2026
An estimate. Start dates often move.
- Expected to finish
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Nov 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 35 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * males and females with a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 29.9 kg/m² * non-smokers * have not participated in structured respiratory muscle training within the previous six months * able to understand the study procedures * provide written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * have a known cardiopulmonary, neuromuscular, or significant metabolic disease * experience a respiratory infection or respiratory symptoms within the preceding 2-3 weeks * pregnant * have undergone major abdominal or thoracic surgery within the previous six months * have uncontrolled hypertension, significant gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or any other condition that could make abdominal loading unsafe, as determined during the screening process.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The official record
The full official record for this study. This one lists no contact details, but it is the first place any would appear.
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A doctor treating you
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