Effects of physical activity on aerobic capacity, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength of football athletes and sedentary individuals. Is there a correlation between these variables?

Abstract

Background:Physical activity allows sport athletes some systemic adjustments that lead to a better performance when compared to sedentary people. However, the real difference that the respiratory system may present between the two populations has yet to be established. This study aimed at evaluating the effects of physical activity on aerobic capacity, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength by determining thecorrelation among athletes and sedentary people. Methods:The study sample consisted of 20 male individuals aged 18-24 years, divided into two groups: Athlete group-AG (n = 10), and Sedentary group-SG(n = 10).Respiratory evaluation was performed through spirometry and manovacuometry.The Bruce treadmill test was used for evaluation of cardiac function. Results:The comparison between AG and SG showed a significant increase (p (0.05) with regards to the following variables: maximum volume (V) of oxygen (O2) (AG = 79.31; SG = 72.40 ml/kg.min); forced vital capacity (AG = 5.76; SG = 4.93L); forced expiratory volume in 1 second (AG = 5.10; SG = 4.41 L); inspiratory muscle strength (AG =-108; SG =-90 cmH2O); positive correlation between maximum oxygen volume and the other variables. Conclusion:The results showed that the football-related physical activities have improved the aerobic capacity, the pulmonary function and the inspiratory muscle strength, demonstrating a positive correlation between these variables.