NCT07216755 Effects of Breathing Training and Nitrate on Exercise at Simulated Altitude
| NCT ID | NCT07216755 |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | — |
| Sponsor | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University |
| Condition | Healthy Adults |
| Study Type | INTERVENTIONAL |
| Enrollment | 80 participants |
| Start Date | 2025-09-01 |
| Primary Completion | 2028-08-31 |
Eligibility & Interventions
Eligibility Fast-Check
Enter your details for a quick preliminary check. This does not replace medical advice.
What to Expect as a Participant
You will actively receive the study intervention — which may be a drug, biologic, device, or procedure.
This trial targets 80 participants in total. It began in 2025-09-01 with a primary completion date of 2028-08-31.
⚠ This information is for research awareness only. Always consult your physician before joining any clinical trial. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
Brief Summary
This study investigates whether respiratory muscle training (RMT) and dietary nitrate supplementation can improve exercise tolerance under simulated moderate altitude conditions. Exposure to reduced oxygen availability at altitude places additional strain on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, which may limit endurance performance. By combining RMT-designed to strengthen the muscles involved in breathing-with nitrate therapy, which enhances nitric oxide availability and vascular function, this study aims to determine whether these interventions independently or synergistically improve oxygen delivery, reduce physiological strain, and enhance exercise performance. The findings will help identify non-pharmacological strategies to improve physical performance and tolerance to hypoxia in both clinical and operational environments.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adults between 18 and 40 years old. Recreationally active (performing ≥3 hours of structured physical activity per week). Non-smokers for at least the past 6 months. Free from any known cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, or neuromuscular disease as determined by health screening questionnaire and medical history. Able to perform cycle ergometer exercise to volitional fatigue. Willing to abstain from high-nitrate foods and supplements (e.g., beets, spinach, arugula) for 48 hours prior to each testing session. Able and willing to provide written informed consent and comply with all study procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of or history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma, COPD). Current use of medications or supplements known to affect cardiovascular, metabolic, or respiratory function (e.g., beta-blockers, nitrates, stimulants). Smoking, vaping, or tobacco use within the past 6 months. Known allergy or intolerance to beetroot products or nitrates. Participation in another interventional research study within the past 30 days. Pregnant or breastfeeding women. Any orthopedic or musculoskeletal limitation preventing safe exercise testing. Failure to meet inclusion criteria or inability to complete familiarization and baseline testing.
Contact & Investigator
Scott K Ferguson, Ph.D.
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the NCT07216755 clinical trial?
This trial is open to participants of all sexes, aged 18 Years or older, up to 40 Years, studying Healthy Adults. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria are listed in the Eligibility Criteria section. Always confirm your eligibility with the research team before applying.
Is NCT07216755 currently recruiting?
Yes, NCT07216755 is actively recruiting participants. Contact the research team at ferguss8@erau.edu for enrollment information.
Where is the NCT07216755 trial being conducted?
This trial is being conducted at Daytona Beach, United States.
Who is sponsoring the NCT07216755 clinical trial?
NCT07216755 is sponsored by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The principal investigator is Scott K Ferguson, Ph.D. at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The trial plans to enroll 80 participants.