Pulmonary function of Indian athletes and sportsmen: comparison with American athletes

Studies were conducted to evaluate pulmonary functions in Indian athletes and sportsmen associated with different athletic events and games. It was found that swimmers were having significantly higher vital capacity (VC) and forced expiratory volume (FEV1) values than all other athletic groups studied. Results have been discussed keeping in view the physiological, functional and structural demands in various events. Pulmonary function values of Indian athletes have also been compared with American athletes of standardized height for a better appraisal of athletic potentiality in our athletes. The importance of athletic training from childhood have been ascribed to be the reason for superior lung volumes and capacities in US athletes.