Comparison between respiratory muscle strength in sedentary and active elderly. A Transversal Study

<em>Aging results in decreased respiratory muscle strength and physical activity can minimize this effect. The aim of this study was to analyze if the strength of respiratory muscles differs between sedentary and active elderly. The sample consisted of 16 subjects divided in active and inactive groups. It was measured the maximal inspiratory pressure (PImáx) and the maximal expiratory pressure (PEmáx). The active group had higher values. We conclude that physical activity reduced the loss of respiratory muscle strength in the study group.