Effect of Resistance Training on Ventilatory Function, Respiratory Muscle Strength, and Quality of Life in Postmenopausal Women

Investigating the effects of adding resistance training to breathing exercises, compared with breathing exercises alone, on ventilatory function as the primary outcome and respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, and quality of life as secondary outcomes in postmenopausal women.

Inclusion Criteria: * Natural menopause, confirmed clinically by the cessation of menstruation for twelve consecutive months and hormonally by serum follicle-stimulating hormone levels of 49 international units per liter or higher. * Normal and restricted ventilatory function according to American Thoracic Society criteria, defined as a total lung capacity greater than or equal to 80% or less than 80% of the predicted value, respectively. * Ages between 45 and 60 years. Exclusion Criteria: * Premature menopause. * Chronic respiratory disorders, such as obstructive or interstitial pulmonary diseases. * Thoracic or abdominal surgery within the previous 3 months. * Diaphragmatic hernia or paralysis. * Unstable cardiovascular conditions. * Musculoskeletal or neurological disorders affecting exercise performance. - --Contraindications to exercise testing.