Diaphragmatic Breathing Training in Combat Sport Athletes with Dysfunctional Breathing
Official title: Dysfunctional Breathing Patterns, Diaphragmatic Function, Core Stability, and Postural Control in Combat Sport Athletes: Diaphragm-Centered Neuromuscular Control Perspective and Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing Retraining
Run by National Cheng Kung University · NCT07717801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether diaphragmatic breathing training can improve breathing patterns, core stability, and sport-related performance in combat sport athletes with dysfunctional breathing.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National Cheng Kung University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tainan) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 2029 |
| Study ends | July 2029 |
| Registry record updated | July 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07717801 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–50 who regularly compete in combat sports (e.g., taekwondo, boxing, judo, karate, jiu-jitsu) and train ≥3 times per week.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with recent major injuries, certain cardiopulmonary or neurological conditions, or those unable to complete assessments may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study investigates dysfunctional breathing in combat sport athletes and whether diaphragmatic breathing retraining can improve diaphragm function, breathing patterns, and postural control. It will screen athletes from combat and non-combat sports, then apply diaphragmatic breathing training in addition to usual training. Outcomes focus on breathing pattern, core stability, balance, and sport performance metrics. The study is conducted at National Cheng Kung University with adult participants aged 18 to 50 who train at least three times weekly. Usual training continues for all participants, with diaphragmatic breathing added for the intervention group.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, athletes may experience better breathing coordination, trunk stability, and possibly enhanced performance and resilience during combat sports.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests breathing patterns can influence performance, but studies on diaphragmatic retraining in combat athletes are limited, making this approach exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18 and 50 years. * Currently participating regularly in combat sports, such as taekwondo, boxing, judo, karate, jiu-jitsu, or similar sports, with at least 2 years of training experience. * Training at least 3 times per week. Exclusion Criteria: * Current or major musculoskeletal injury within the past year that may affect testing or training performance. * History of major thoracic, abdominal, or spinal surgery. * Known cardiopulmonary diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart disease; neurological disorders; vestibular dysfunction; or other conditions that may affect balance. * Current or recent pregnancy. * Previous participation in breathing training or respiratory therapy, or current use of medications that may affect respiratory or neuromuscular function. * Inability to complete ultrasound assessment, motion analysis, or exercise testing. * Having a subordinate relationship or conflict of interest with the principal investigator or co-investigators, such as being a supervised student, research assistant, employee, or other related personnel.
Where it's running
-
Department of Physical Therapy, National Cheng Kung University,
Tainan, Taiwan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Yi-Ju Tsai
- Email: lulilutsai@gmail.com
- Phone: +886-6-2353535
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.