From Breathing to Mobility: What if training the inspiratory muscles could influence the way we move?

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is traditionally associated with respiratory performance, yet growing evidence suggests that its effects may extend well beyond breathing. The diaphragm and other inspiratory muscles contribute to postural control, trunk stability, exercise tolerance and the physiological responses that underpin functional movement.

In this talk, Professor Francesco Ferraro will draw on more than a decade of research into inspiratory muscle physiology and functional mobility to explore the emerging role of IMT within rehabilitation and prehabilitation. Moving from physiological mechanisms to clinical application, the presentation will examine the relationship between inspiratory muscle function, balance and gait; evidence that targeted IMT can influence functional outcomes; and the potential mechanisms linking respiratory muscle function with postural and locomotor control. The talk will then consider how these findings may translate into orthopaedic and perioperative pathways, including the potential role of respiratory muscle assessment and training before surgery and during rehabilitation.

Particular attention will be given to older and clinical populations, where reduced respiratory muscle function may coexist with impaired mobility and reduced physiological reserve. Rather than viewing breathing and movement as separate systems, the presentation will propose a more integrated approach in which respiratory muscle function becomes part of the assessment and optimisation of physical function. The session will conclude by examining what the evidence currently supports, where important knowledge gaps remain, and how IMT might be incorporated into future evidence-based rehabilitation and prehabilitation strategies.

Speaker Bio:

Professor Francesco V. Ferraro, PhD, is an Associate Professor in Sport and Exercise Science at the Italian University Line (IUL), with an international research career spanning respiratory physiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation and clinical exercise science. His doctoral research at Bournemouth University investigated the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on balance and functional mobility in older adults, establishing a research programme that he has subsequently extended across ageing, diabetes, rehabilitation, physical performance and orthopaedic recovery.

He has authored more than 50 scientific publications and has led or contributed to numerous international research projects examining inspiratory muscle function, postural control, gait, functional mobility and rehabilitation. His work includes randomised controlled trials of IMT, research combining IMT with Tai Chi and Nordic Walking, studies of inspiratory muscle fatigue and fall risk, and the development of clinical frameworks for the use of IMT within orthopaedic enhanced-recovery pathways.

Alongside his academic work, Professor Ferraro has substantial clinical research experience. He previously worked within the UK NHS and served as Clinical Trial Manager at Nuffield Health Hospital and Bournemouth University’s Orthopaedic Research Institute, where he coordinated research into robotic total hip replacement using gait analysis, strength testing, functional mobility assessments and patient-reported outcomes. His work therefore sits at the intersection of respiratory physiology and movement science, with a particular focus on translating physiological mechanisms into practical strategies to improve mobility, rehabilitation and patient outcomes.