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Abstract:
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Expiration during exercise requires the active contraction of trunk muscles (Fuller, Sullivan & Fregosi, 1996). After prolonged exercise it has been demonstrated that expiratory muscles become fatigued (Suzuki, Suzuki, & Okubo, 1991) which can be deleterious to performance (Hill, Jacoby & Farber, 1991). Sapienza, Davenport, and Martin (2002) reported increased expiratory muscle strength following an expiratory muscle resistance training program (EMRT). Though no data has been collected on the effects of EMRT on athletes, Volianitis, McConnell, Koutedakis, McNaughton, Backx, & Jones (2001) indicated that an inspiratory muscle resistance training program (IMRT) increased inspiratory strength and rowing performance. The present study looked at the effects of a 5-week EMRT program on members of the Humboldt State University Men's Rowing team (n = 14). Post-test data revealed no significant changes in expiratory muscle strength or 2000m ergometer rowing time between the groups, but the experimental group did experience significant gains in strength between the pre- and post-tests. Overall results were inconsistent from previous studies, most notably the lack of change in rowing performance. Expiratory muscle strength data were similar to earlier studies using no control group. Various aspects of the study, including the fact that the subjects were highly trained competitors at the height of their season, raise questions about the effects and implementation of EMRT. |
