Open AccessThe Mechanics of Breathing during Swimming
Author(s) -
Michael G. Leahy,
Mckenzie N. Summers,
Carli M. Peters,
Yannick MolgatSeon,
Caitlin M. Geary,
A. William Sheel
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
medicine and science in sports and exercise
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1530-0315
pISSN - 0195-9131
DOI - 10.1249/mss.0000000000001902
Subject(s) - cycling , medicine , cardiorespiratory fitness , heart rate , ventilation (architecture) , work of breathing , respiratory physiology , apnea , zoology , cardiology , anesthesia , respiratory system , blood pressure , biology , physics , archaeology , history , thermodynamics
The thorax undergoes unique conditions while swimming. Hydrostatic pressure from water immersion places an external load on the thorax and increases airway resistance, and the horizontal body position results in central venous engorgement and an associated reduction in lung compliance. The aforementioned factors likely increase the work of breathing (Wb); however, this hypothesis remains untested.