A Prospective Outlook of Yogic Training on Lung Functions and Antioxidants Status

Abstract

Stress leads to production of free radicals in animal muscle. Antioxidant enzymes act directly or indirectly to remove reactive oxygen species and thus elevation of these enzymes with training, suggests an increased need for protection against free radicals. Thirty healthy participants were trained for yogic exercise for a period of 6 months and their forced expiratory volume in first second, forced vital capacity and peak expiratory flow rate were assessed. Biochemical investigations were also performed to assess MOD and SDA level. Exercise has a positive effect on respiratory functions. Such a practice leads to an increase in resting tidal volume, decrease in respiratory rate, increase in vital capacity and breath holding time.