- Updated on October 29, 2020
By Dr. Artour Rakhimov, Alternative Health Educator and Author
- Medically Reviewed by Naziliya Rakhimova, MD
In their articles, studies, and reviews, the creators of Powerbreathe say that the training of the inspiratory muscles is the most effective method to improve health and oxygen transport. Clinical trials have revealed some positive effects of this respiration device on athletic performance (Edwards et al, 2008; Edwards et al, 2004; Hart et al, 2001).
How could this device improve oxygen levels in cells? Oxygen levels in body cells will be higher if the automatic breathing pattern is slower and lighter (reduced minute ventilation and higher arterial CO2). Could Powerbreathe lead to this effect?
Most people have incorrect ideas about breathing patterns for maximum body oxygenation. As a result, they try to breathe more air (sometimes or often) thinking that they can get more oxygen in the brain and body cells.
However, hundreds of medical studies tell us that breathing more than the tiny medical norm (6 L/min at rest) reduces oxygen delivery to cells. How could Powerbreathe improve oxygen levels in cells? Oxygen levels in body cells will be higher if the automatic breathing pattern after the sessions is slower and lighter (reduced minute ventilation and higher arterial CO2).
The training manuals and practical applications (e.g., in clinical trials) of Powerbreathe are based on one key recommendation that makes this device useful for athletes to increase VO2max and improve health. Exhalations, according to the creators of this trainer, are slow and passive. Indeed, should exhalations be fast (assume that it was decided that the training of expiratory muscles is also important), there would be virtually no benefits from Powerbreathe.
Powerbreathe vs. UltraBreathe, Expand-A-Lung, PowerLung
You can get maximum benefits from Powerbreathe if you follow some additional instructions related to lifestyle changes in order to improve body-oxygen levels 24/7.
It is a mistake to compare Powerbreathe vs. Expand-A-Lung or Powerbreathe vs. Powerlung since it is how you use the trainer, rather than which trainer you use, that matters most for modern athletes.
Furthermore, if you try to exhale longer and even hold your breath after exhalations during breathing exercises (for advanced stages of training only), then you can get even more benefits from Powerbreathe and achieve higher body oxygen levels.
You can get even better results if you train with another breathing device that can be used continuously during physical activity. Many of my breathing students tried this breathing device with amazing results. This gadget simulates high altitude training (improving hemoglobin and blood iron levels) and has the most profound effect on VO2max, endurance, health, and fitness. It has definite advantages if one reviews it and compares it with Powerbreathe. The name and detailed review of this advanced device are provided right below here as your bonus content.
It is called the Training Mask.
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References
Br J Sports Med. 2008 Oct;42(10):823-7. Epub 2008 Feb 28.
Concurrent inspiratory muscle and cardiovascular training differentially improves both perceptions of effort and 5000 m running performance compared with cardiovascular training alone.
Edwards AM, Wells C, Butterly R.
Eur J Appl Physiol. 2004 Oct;93(1-2):139-44. Epub 2004 Aug 19.
Oxygen uptake kinetics and maximal aerobic power are unaffected by inspiratory muscle training in healthy subjects where time to exhaustion is extended.
Edwards AM, Cooke CB.
Respir Med. 2001 Jun;95(6):526-31.
Evaluation of an inspiratory muscle trainer in healthy humans. (They also reviewed Powerbreathe)
Hart N, Sylvester K, Ward S, Cramer D, Moxham J, Polkey MI.
