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Author Spotlight: Exploring Breathing Techniques and Digital Solutions for Enhancing Running Performance
Published on: September 27, 2024
Custom Smartphone Application to Guide Locomotor-Respiratory Coupling in the Field Using Step-Adaptive Breathing
Eric Harbour1, Vincent van Rheden2, Harald Rieser3
1Department of Sport and Exercise Science, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg; eric.harbour@plus.ac.at.
None:
While running is amongst the most popular activities for competition and leisure, an estimated 20-40% of runners may suffer from respiratory limitations. Some of these runners may benefit from breathing techniques to improve performance or alleviate respiratory discomfort. One such technique is locomotor-respiratory coupling (LRC), a frequency and phase synchronization of breath to step. Studies have demonstrated that LRC may benefit ventilatory efficiency via "step-driven flows," and some experts have argued it could be used for pacing exercise or increasing positive emotional states. Nevertheless, it may be difficult to perform without coaching or guidance. Here we propose RunRhythm, a custom smartphone application to deliver step-synchronized sound guidance for LRC. This concept builds on previous evidence that sound guidance can be effective and integrates features to maximize adherence and individualization. Preliminary results show that this application is a promising and efficacious method suitable for research on LRC in field exercise. Recommendations for use and further development are discussed to further develop this concept for the benefit of a wider population.
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