Author(s): BARGI, G., ÇINAR ÖZDEMIR, Ö., EMIR, C., DEMIR, A.S., YESILAY BÜYÜKDERE, E., Institution: IZMIR DEMOCRACY UNIVERSITY, Country: TURKEY, Abstract-ID: 2555

INTRODUCTION:
In volleyball, possessing both health-related and sport-specific physical fitness parameters is crucial for an athlete to unleash their peak performance. However, the literature lacks sufficient knowledge regarding respiratory muscle strength and endurance, cough strength, and balance in adolescent female volleyball players. Thus, this study aimed to shed light on this issue.
METHODS:
This cross-sectional study was conducted with adolescent female volleyball players (age: 15.42±1.56 years, volleyball playing time: 5±1.60 years). Respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP)), respiratory muscle endurance, peak cough expiratory flow (PCEF) and dynamic balance were assessed using a spirometer, incremental threshold loading test with POWERbreathe Wellness® Classic Light Resistance device, a peak flow meter (ExpiRite Peak Flow Meter, China) and functional reach test, respectively.
RESULTS:
The mean values for MIP (114.17±19.67 cmH2O, 139.06±23.95 %) MEP (109.92±23.11 cmH2O, 85.67±17.00 %), respiratory muscle endurance (870.59±621.82 cmH2O×sec), PCEF (492.73±121.33 L/min, 112.27±26.92 %), functional reach test (right: 38.92±8.18 cm, left: 38.76±7.81 cm) were within normal ranges. PCEF was significantly correlated with respiratory muscle endurance (r= 0.622) and functional reach test (left side r= 0.616, right side r= 0.628) values (p<0.05). No significant correlations were found among other outcomes (p>0.05).
CONCLUSION:
As cough strength increases, respiratory muscle endurance and dynamic balance also increase in adolescent female volleyball players. Integrating comprehensive pulmonary assessments and applications into volleyball workout programs may be important for improving balance performance of adolescent female volleyball players.