The neural influence on the occurrence of locomotor–respiratory coordination

This study focused on the neurogenic mechanisms of coordination between locomotor and respiratory rhythms. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of peripheral neurogenic drive from moving limbs, and the level of consciousness, on locomotor–respiratory coordination. Subjects performed movement for 20 min in a supine position using a bicycle ergometer. The movement comprised three types of leg movements: active (loadless) movement, passive movement while awake and passive movement during sleep. We found no difference between active and passive movement in the degree of coordination. However, the degree of coordination during sleep was significantly lower than that while awake (p < 0.05). We conclude that peripheral neurogenic drive from moving limbs is able to generate locomotor–respiratory coordination, and that the level of consciousness may influence the degree of coordination.