Effects of Isotonic Exercises on Pulmonary Function and Free Radical Status in Healthy Young Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study

摘要

Background and Aims: Different types of exercises affect body systems in variable manner. The present study was undertaken to assess the effect of isotonic exercises, yoga and aerobics on pulmonary functions and free radical status in healthy young adults. Methods: The prospective cohort study was conducted in the departments of physiology and biochemistry at a teaching hospital in north India. Thirty subjects, 18-30 year old apparently healthy volunteers were included in 2 groups, aerobic and yogic, based upon regular performance of exercises. The subjects were assessed at the start of and after 3 months and 6 months of the training schedule. The parameters assessed were pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV1, PEFR) and estimation of free radicals, malondialdehyde (MDA) & super oxide dismutase (SOD). The results were compared using student ?t? test & ANOVA. Results: The subjects in yoga group showed significant improvement in FEV1 & PEFR and in MDA and SOD level from baseline to 3 months. In the aerobic exercise group a significant change was observed in terms of FVC, FEV1 & PEFR, MDA & SOD at 3 months. No further significant change was observed from 3 to 6 months in any parameter among both groups. Conclusions: Though the observations suggest clear effect of isotonic exercises and various parameters, a further study with larger sample size and assessing more objective parameters can provide better insight into the suggested relationship.