Introduction: Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT) strengthens respiratory muscles, reduces fatigue, and enhances ventilatory efficiency. This review summarizes the evidence regarding the effects of IMT on pulmonary function and performance in athletes.

Methods: Literature from 2010–2024 was reviewed from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Key studies on IMT in soccer, rowing, swimming, and endurance sports were included, emphasizing outcomes such as maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure, pulmonary function, VO₂max, and repeated sprint ability (RSA).

Results: Most studies demonstrated significant improvements in inspiratory strength and endurance performance following IMT. Soccer players benefited most, with consistent gains in VO₂max and sprint efficiency, while mixed findings were reported for rowers and endurance athletes.