Elite athletes make the most demanding movements seem effortless, seamlessly blending phenomenal intramuscular and intermuscular coordination. Yet, beneath the surface of this athleticism lies a critical factor that often goes unnoticed: the mastery of breathing.
Well coordinated breathing isn't just about sustaining efficient movement; it's a vital component for increasing and maintaining elevated cardiac output. Cyclic changes in intrathoracic pressure during each breath play a pivotal role in influencing the cardiovascular system, partly by influencing central venous pressure, venous return, and cardiac filling — a phenomenon known as the thoracic muscle pump.
With a deep breath in, intrathoracic pressure drops, triggering a decrease in central venous pressure. This drop, however paradoxical it may seem, sets the stage for a domino effect. Lower central venous pressure boosts driving pressure, facilitating increased venous return. This, in turn, elevates end-diastolic volume, stroke…
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