Effects of selected asana from Hathabhyasa-paddhati on physical fitness parameters

Physical fitness is a multidimensional construct that reflects the body’s ability to perform daily activities efficiently, and maintain overall health and well-being. Among the various components of physical fitness, flexibility and balance are considered fundamental parameters that significantly influence functional movement, posture, injury prevention, and overall physical performance. These parameters not only support athletic efficiency but also play an essential role in maintaining quality of life across different age groups. The present investigation was taken as an initiative to find out the effect of selected asanas from Hath Abhyas Paddhati on physical fitness parameters among Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research university boys’ students. The study was conducted on 60 boys of diploma, degree courses of PAHER university, Udaipur, Rajasthan, divided into 2 groups equally, named control and experimental groups. The age ranged between 18 to 25 years. The experiment group was treated by 6-week training programme, based on selected yoga asana of hathabhyasa-paddhati book and the control group did not undergo any type of training. Balance and flexibility were selected as physical variables and were measured using stork stand test and seat and reach in pre and in posttest. Mann-Whitney U test was employed to analyse the data statistically. After six weeks, yoga intervention results showed a significant role of yoga training to improve balance and flexibility (p<0.001) among the experimental group, while no significant difference was found in the control group.