Combined SOVT and Respiratory Exercises: Effects on MPT and Respiratory Function

This study aims to investigate the effects of combined SOVT and breathing exercises, applied twice a week for 6 weeks, on conservatory students at Gaziantep University through a randomized controlled trial. The study has two hypotheses: H1: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises increase maximum phonation duration. H2: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises improve spirometric parameters (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC, and PEF). In the intervention group, phonation exercises using a pipette were taught and practiced as part of the SOVT exercise. Simultaneously, pursed-lip breathing, segmental breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing exercises were taught and practiced as breathing exercises. At the end of 6 weeks, the maximum phonation duration of all participants was measured with a stopwatch. Additionally, spirometric parameters were measured using a spirometer.

Inclusion criteria

• Being between 18 and 35 years of age

• Being an undergraduate student studying vocal training at a state conservatory
• Volunteering to actively participate in the research process and signing the written consent form

Exclusion criteria

• • Having been diagnosed with any voice disorder (e.g., nodule, polyp, laryngitis, dysphonia, etc.)

• Having received voice therapy, voice surgery, or respiratory physiotherapy in the past
• Having an acute or chronic respiratory disease (e.g., asthma, COPD, bronchitis)
• Participants who have had an upper respiratory tract infection in the last two weeks
• Participants with a neurological, psychiatric, or cardiopulmonary system diagnosis
• Participants who declare that they cannot regularly attend the exercise protocol