Effect of Yoga on Aerobic Power, Anaerobic Power and Audio-visual Reaction Time in Healthy Individuals

This study was done to assess the effects of selected yoga practices and pranayama on cardiorespiratory fitness in terms of aerobic and anaerobic power and reaction time as an indicator of rate of processing sensory signals by central nervous system, in young, healthy students. Study group consisted of 60 students of Ayurveda medical college, 17-22 years of age. The control group consisted of 60 agematched students of medical college.

In both the groups, aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity and audio-visual reaction time was measured at the beginning. Study group participated in yoga training program including pranayama, 1hour/ day for six days a week for six months, in the Physiology department. Control group didn't undergo any training. All the tests were repeated after six months in both the groups. Results were analysed statistically by using student's t-test.

After six months of yoga and pranayama, there is a significant increase in aerobic power and decrease in anaerobic power in the study group indicating improved cardiorespiratory fitness. Audio-visual reaction time was reduced in the study group indicating improved signal processing of central nervous system. No significant change in parameters were seen in control group subjects.