Effect of Coherent Breathing Versus Inspiratory Muscle Training on Risk of Falling and Functional Capacity in Older Adults

Objective: This study aimed to compare the impact of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and the coherent breathing technique on the old population's gait, balance, and functional capacity. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 90 older individuals who were allocated into the IMT, coherent breathing, and control groups. The participants' ages varied between 62 and 68 years, and their body mass index was 25 to 30 kg/m2. The IMT group received an IMT program, the coherent breathing group received a program of coherent breathing exercises, and the control group did not receive any intervention. The investigation was extended to 12 weeks, with a frequency of three sessions per week. The Tinetti performance oriented mobility assessment (POMA) was employed to assess the balance and gait level of the participants, while their functional capacity was assessed utilizing the six-minute walking test (6MWT) before and after the intervention. Results: The POMA score and the 6MWT outcomes were significantly increased in the IMT and coherent breathing exercises (p <= 0.05), and no significant variation was detected in the control group. However, the IMT group showed increased improvement in balance and functional capacity compared with the coherent breathing group. Conclusion: Our study outcomes exhibited that both IMT and coherent breathing exercises played a vital role in enhancing functional capacity and decreasing the risk of falls in older individuals. However, the IMT exhibited more efficacy in improving balance, gait, and functional capacity compared with coherent breathing.