Abstract
Objectives
Research is equivocal regarding endurance performance benefits of external nasal dilators,
and currently research focusing on internal nasal dilators is non-existent. Both devices
are used within competitive cycling. This study examined the influence of external
and internal nasal dilation on cycling economy of motion and 20-km time trial performance.
Design
The study utilized a randomized, counterbalanced cross-over design.
Methods
Fifteen trained cyclists completed three exercise sessions consisting of a 15 min standardized warm up and 20-km cycling time trial while wearing either a Breathe
Right® external nasal dilator, Turbine® internal nasal dilator or no device (control). During the warm up, heart rate, ratings
of perceived exertion and dyspnea and expired gases were collected. During the time
trial, heart rate, perceived exertion, and dyspnea were collected at 4-km intervals
and mean 20-km power output was recorded.
Results
No differences were observed for mean 20-km power output between the internal (270 ± 45 W) or external dilator (271 ± 44 W) and control (272 ± 44 W). No differences in the economy of motion were observed throughout the 15-min warm
up between conditions.
Conclusions
The Turbine® and Breathe Right® nasal dilators are ineffective at enhancing 20-km cycling time trial performance.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 01, 2016
Accepted:
August 25,
2016
Received in revised form:
August 10,
2016
Received:
April 29,
2016
Identification
Copyright
© 2016 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
