TABLE 4.

Effects of intentionally strengthening suggestions on parameters of respiratory muscle strength.

Suggestions	MIP		MEP		PIF		PEF
	Mean ± SD	p	Mean ± SD	p	Mean ± SD	p	Mean ± SD	p *
Self-affirmation	106.4 ± 20.1	0.030	104.9 ± 15.6	0.035	101.2 ± 16.3	ns	101.8 ± 11.4	ns
Empowering word
Version A: “fireball”	100.0 ± 15.6	ns	107.1 ± 19.6	0.013	103.2 ± 16.9	ns	107.4 ± 9.6	<0.001
Version B: own power-word	103.4 ± 19.7	ns	110.3 ± 21.4	0.001	104.5 ± 16.9	ns	105.7 ± 10.6	<0.001
Version C: repetition of B	105.1 ± 20.0	ns	104.5 ± 18.9	ns	103.0 ± 13.9	ns	99.5 ± 9.9	ns
Bracing mirror image	104.7 ± 14.8	0.029	101.4 ± 14.6	ns	103.9 ± 15.4	ns	101.6 ± 9.3	ns
Inflating a balloon	99.4 ± 21.7	ns	106.7 ± 18.6	0.014	100.3 ± 14.1	ns	102.6 ± 8.8	0.040

After the determination of the baseline, suggestions were presented followed by a new measurement. Mean and SD of relative values compared to baseline (in %) after suggestion are given.

*According to one sample T-test, results without significance are given as ns. MIP, maximal inspiratory pressure; MEP, maximal expiratory pressure; PIF, peak inspiratory flow; PEF, peak expiratory flow. Significant p-values are indicated in bold.