Effect of Bhastrika Pranayama on respiratory muscle function

• Author Details:   
• Sivapriya DV
• Veerapandian S

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Introduction: Respiratory muscles improve their function in response to training. Yogic exercises have the ability to enhance respiratory efficiency. Respiratory training techniques have consistently demonstrated positive outcomes in different respiratory conditions. Aim of the study is to know the effect of Bhastrika pranayama on respiratory muscle function in young adult males.
Materials and Method: This study was conducted on 40 healthy adult male aged 18 to 23 years in Government Yoga & Naturopathy Medical College. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), Breath holding time (BHT) and 40 mmHg endurance were measured. Participants practiced Bhastrika pranayama 5 days a week for 45 days, 3 hours after lunch. After 45 days of regular practice, all the above parameters were reassessed.
Results: The student paired ‘t’ test was used to compare pre and post training values. Respiratory muscle strength, as indicated by parameters PEFR, BHT and 40 mm Hg endurance test increases significantly after the practice of Bhastrika Pranayama.
Conclusion: Bhastrika Pranayama has beneficial effect on respiratory muscle function and is an effective yoga practice for college students.

Keywords: Bhastrika Pranayama, Yoga, Peak expiratory flow rate, Breath holding time, 40 mmHg endurance