Recruiting

Breathing and Core Exercises for Long COVID Recovery

Plain-English translation of NCT07051954 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated January 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether a combination of breathing exercises and core strengthening can help people with long COVID feel stronger and recover better. You'll be randomly assigned to either do core strengthening exercises alone, or core strengthening combined with special breathing muscle training. The researchers will measure how well your breathing muscles work, your overall fitness, and how you feel.

Many people with long COVID struggle with fatigue, weakness, and trouble exercising. This treatment is designed to target the breathing and core muscles that may be affected by long COVID, potentially helping people regain strength and function.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with post-COVID syndrome
you are between 18 and 65 years old
you are able to read and understand the study procedures
your other health conditions (like high blood pressure or diabetes) are controlled and stable
you have moderate difficulty with daily activities (classified as level 2 or 3 on the Post-COVID Functional Status Scale)

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had a recent heart attack or blood clot in your lungs
you have uncontrolled chronic diseases
you have orthopedic or neurological conditions that limit your ability to move or exercise
you have had a stroke or have a psychiatric condition that would make it difficult for you to follow the exercise program

What participation looks like

You will attend exercise sessions 3 days per week for 12 weeks, with each session lasting about 50 minutes. You'll come to the Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Unit at Hacettepe University. Before and after the program, you'll complete tests that measure your breathing strength, fitness level, muscle strength, balance, and how you're feeling mentally and emotionally. One group will do core strengthening exercises, while the other group will do the same exercises plus additional breathing muscle training.

Breathing and Core Exercises for Long COVID Recovery

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)