Attached
Poor performance of Sri Lankan athletes in the international arena is observed despite
regular training. Performance depends on the physical fitness and technical training.
Although techniques are addressed, a player's physical fitness is not optimized
by the present training programs. Objective of the study is to determine the status
of pulmonary functions amongst Sri Lankan national level athletes in comparison to
matched controls. National level athletes (n = 63) engaged in resistance and endurance
sports were studied. Baseline data were collected by a questionnaire and clinical
examination. Pulmonary functions were assessed by a Vitallograph Spirometer. Results
were compared with age, height, weight and Gender matched controls (n= 63). Data
were analyzed using SPSS version 16 statistical package. Inspiratory function as indicated
by the Forced Inspiratory Vital Capacity (FIVC), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced
Expiratory Volume in 1st second (F E V J were significantly higher amongst the athletes
(p< 0.05). The small air way function as determined by mid-stream Forced Expiratory
Flow (FEF2594 75X) of the athletes was similar to the controls (p>0.05). The expiratory
muscle efficiency as indicated by Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) and FEV1/ FVC
ratio was not significantly different between the athletes and the controls (p> 0.05).
The study concludes that training programs for the athletes must consist of exercise
schedules to optimize the strength and endurance of respiratory muscles. The core
muscles (diaphragm and transverses abdominis) training and expiratory muscle training
is also very important in the training schedules. This will achieve optimal pulmonary
function amongst athletes. Improvement of pulmonary function may in turn promote
better performance of athletes at competitions.
