Does running performance affect the thoracic diameter expansion among different running intensities?

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology
• Thoracic Kinematics

Background:

• Breathing expansion traditionally viewed as physiological, ignoring biomechanical factors.
• Thoracic expansion is non-uniform across the ribcage.
• Running performance may influence thoracic wall movements.

Purpose of the Study:

• Analyze mediolateral and anteroposterior thoracic diameter variations.
• Investigate changes at upper, middle, and lower ribcage levels.
• Compare athletes with different running performance levels and intensities.

Main Methods:

• Optoelectronic plethysmography used on 22 athletes during incremental running tests.
• Measurements taken at varying exercise intensities.
• Athletes categorized into three running performance groups based on final velocity.

Main Results:

• Increased thoracic expansion (anteroposterior and mediolateral diameters) at all levels with rising exercise intensity.
• A mirrored pattern observed: upper anteroposterior/lower mediolateral expanded more initially, while upper mediolateral/lower anteroposterior expanded more in later stages.
• No significant differences in thoracic kinematics between running performance groups at similar intensities.

Conclusions:

• Thoracic expansion patterns change with exercise intensity, exhibiting a mirrored expansion strategy.
• Running performance level did not significantly differentiate thoracic kinematics.
• Further research needed to identify subtle kinematic variations and their clinical relevance for respiratory health and fitness assessment.