Breathing TrainersUpdated June 2026

Threshold IMT (Philips Respironics)

The Threshold IMT is the device used in the majority of clinical research studies on inspiratory muscle training in COPD. Its spring-loaded, threshold resistance mechanism delivers consistent, measurable training loads regardless of breathing rate — the key feature that distinguishes genuine IMT from simple resistan…

Reviewed by
HealthRankings editors
Evidence
Limited
Overall score9.0/10Excellent
Price$288Premium
HSA / FSACheck with provider
EvidenceLimited
Quick take

What we loved& what to know.

Strengths

  • Used in clinical research trials
  • True threshold resistance (not flow-dependent)
  • Physiotherapist recommended
  • Durable, proven design
  • No digital measurements
  • No app connectivity
  • Manual resistance adjustment

Tradeoffs

  • No digital measurements
  • No app connectivity
  • Manual resistance adjustment
Real-world usage

Living with the Threshold IMT (Philips Respironics).

Practical considerations for daily operation.

Daily routine

Designed to slot into a typical morning health-check routine without friction.

Learning curve

Set-up is straightforward — most readers are comfortable after a single calibration session.

Maintenance

Keep the unit clean and store it in a dry case to preserve accuracy long-term.

Portability

Best kept on a counter or shelf at home; not engineered for daily commuting.

Manual / offline use

Works fully offline — every key reading is visible on the device itself, no phone required.

Hands-on notes

Deep dives.

At a Glance

The Threshold IMT is the device used in the majority of clinical research studies on inspiratory muscle training in COPD. Its spring-loaded, threshold resistance mechanism delivers consistent, measurable training loads regardless of breathing rate — the key feature that distinguishes genuine IMT from simple resistance breathing. Recommended by respiratory therapists worldwide and explicitly referenced in ATS/ERS COPD management guidelines.

How it stacks up

Breathing Trainers ranked.

The Threshold IMT (Philips Respironics) alongside our top picks in breathing trainers.

RankDeviceScore
#1
Airofit PRO Breathing Trainer
9.4/10Compare →
#2
Threshold IMT (Philips Respironics)You’re reading
9.0/10Current
#3
POWERbreathe Medic
8.8/10Compare →
#4
Acapella Vibratory PEP Device
8.6/10Compare →
#5
Expand-A-Lung Breathing Exerciser
8.2/10Compare →
9.0/10
Excellent
HealthRankings verdict

The bottom line

The Threshold IMT is the device used in the majority of clinical research studies on inspiratory muscle training in COPD. Its spring-loaded, threshold resistance mechanism delivers consistent, measurable training loads regardless of breathing rate — the key feature that distinguishes genuine IMT from simple resistance breathing. Recommended by respiratory therapists worldwide and explicitly referenced in ATS/ERS COPD management guidelines.

How we test

HealthRankings buys, tests, and rates devices independently. Our scoring blends quantitative measurements (accuracy vs reference, sample-to-sample variability, fit testing) with everyday usability and cost. We disclose affiliate links and never accept paid placement in our rankings.

Medical disclaimer:Reviews are for general information only and are not medical advice. Always follow your clinician's guidance for diagnosing or treating health conditions. Read full disclaimer