How does IMT training help fitness?
Research shows a correlation between increasing your inspiratory muscle strength and inspiratory capacity with an increase in aerboic fitness levels.
Frequently asked questions.
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What is IMT?
IMT stands for Inspiratory Muscle Training and it refers to exercises that strengthen the muscles involved with breathing air into your lungs.
How often do I have to train to see results?
Studies show that 30 minutes three times a week will provide you with measurable results within 6 weeks.
How long has IMT been around?
IMT was first described almost 40 years ago, and the interval training system with computer feedback used in the PrO2 was first described by Ken Chatham over 20 years ago. The PrO2 is unique in its ability to maximally train inspiratory muscles to incr...
Is there research to backup your claims?
Yes, our unique approach is supported by multiple published studies written over almost 20 years in the medical and sports press. See our research section for more details.
What should I expect during training?
It typically takes 1 week (3 trainings) to learn the best techniques. Weeks 2 and 3 are termed neural adaptation - that is you acquire the muscle skills to coordinate all the muscles for optimum breathing. From 4 weeks on you get structural/morphologic...
Why are my scores getting better during a session? Shouldn't they be going down?
When you first start training, it's not uncommon that you will get your best inspire for a session on the third, fourth or even fifth set. This is because you are learning how to take a maximum breath. After the first few weeks of training, you should ...
How does PrO2 training increase aerobic capacity?
The PrO2 is training your inspiratory MUSCLES. The stronger those muscles are the easier it is to move air in and out of the lungs. Also, when your inspiratory muscles fatigue, it appears to be a trigger for your brain to stop activity.
Why do some RMT studies show limited results?
Not all IMT products and associated protocols can garner clinically proven respiratory advancements like the PrO2 Connected Platform. Whenever a study finds little or no improvement from IMT, it is likely due to one or more reasons:
- Too short of t...
What is the FIT score?
The Fatigue Index Test (FIT) is a single breath measurement unique to any individual that gives a simple higher is a better number. This assesses the power generated by the inspiratory muscles and the amount of air moved into the lungs via the PrO2 dev...
What is Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT)?
Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) is a type of therapy or exercise that focuses on strengthening the muscles involved in inhalation, specifically the muscles responsible for expanding the lungs and drawing air into the respiratory system. These muscles...
What is Telerehabilitation?
Telerehabilitation provides rehabilitation services through telecommunication technologies, typically videoconferencing and remote monitoring. It allows healthcare professionals to deliver rehabilitation therapies and services to patients who cannot at...
I used a PrO2 in my physical therapist's office; can I use one at home?
You can purchase a unit online or ask your therapists if they can provide one. We always suggest working with a clinician when possible since they are well-trained in managing respiratory health. They can set up remote patient monitoring (RPM) to help ...
What if I purchase a PrO2 and need guidance, but my healthcare provider is unfamiliar with RMT?
RMT is usually performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional or a physical therapist to ensure proper technique and safety. While respiratory conditioning with the PrO2Health Connected Platform is designed for anyone to use safely, we recom...
I suffer from long-COVID and understand that respiratory muscle training can help. Might this work for me?
We suggest educating yourself before starting a respiratory muscle training (RMT) program and working with a clinician with first-hand knowledge. This clinical study consisted of over 200 COVID-19 sufferers with a positive impact on breathlessness, fat...
What is Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP)?
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP), also known as maximal inspiratory pressure or negative (opposing) inspiratory force, measures the strength of the inspiratory muscles, particularly the diaphragm and the muscles between the ribs (intercostal muscles)...
What is Sustained Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (SMIP)?
Sustained Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (SMIP) measures respiratory muscle strength and endurance. It is a parameter used in pulmonary function testing to assess the muscles' strength in inhalation. SMIP is measured by having the individual generate max...
How does IMT help with overall cardiorespiratory efficiency?
The heart and lungs are interdependent, which is the basis of cardiorespiratory fitness. This includes Ventilation/Perfusion (V/Q) relationships within the lungs and throughout the body. Without blood supply or O2 delivery, things do not function at th...
How do PrO2 devices differ from a Spirometer?
A spirometer is a simple device for measuring the flow and volume of air. This essentially overlooks the primary mover… EFFORT from contracting respiratory muscles. PrO2 devices measure the muscle and lung function combination, which equals RESPIRATORY...
Is the PrO2 a Threshold Device?
No, the PrO2 is not a threshold device and is not limited to Residual Volume (RV) training. It provides real-time feedback displayed on a phone or tablet, offering unlimited levels of conditioning based on individuals’ capability and capacity.
Thres...