Local MP, Mike Penning, has congratulated Hemel Hempstead-based Opro 360 on the success of their innovative product – the RespiBelt – which helped Britain’s Mo Farah and America’s Galen Rupp to win Olympic Gold and Silver medals in the men’s 10,000 metres. (Photo: www.yellowmelen.co.uk [1])

The RespiBelt was used by the top athletes during their preparation for the Olympics. The belt is wrapped around the lower chest and ribcage to provide a training load as the chest expands during breathing. This improves the muscles’ efficiency – which means more oxygen reaches the exercising muscles leading to increased power and endurance.

The RespiBelt was developed by Loughborough University and manufactured by Opro 360 which is based in Maylands, Hemel Hempstead.

Mike Penning said:
“I am delighted a Hemel Hempstead-based company is manufacturing such an innovative product – especially as it has played a part in securing an Olympic Gold for Team GB!”