Impact of Yogic Asanas at Different Altitudes

This study examines the impact of yogic asanas on the physiological functioning of youth living at different altitudes. A total of 399 subjects were selected from three regions representing different altitudinal conditions, Shimla, Delhi and Mumbai. The participants underwent three months of yogic asanas training, followed by physiological assessment. The study evaluated Body Mass Index, body fat percentage, Basal Metabolic Rate, Waist Hip Ratio, pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and Total Leukocyte Count. The collected data were analyzed using the independent t test and Kruskal Wallis nonparametric test. The findings indicate significant differences among the three altitude groups in several physiological parameters, particularly Body Mass Index, Basal Metabolic Rate, Waist Hip Ratio and Total Leukocyte Count, both before and after yogic asanas training. In contrast, body fat percentage and pulse rate did not show significant differences among the groups. The findings suggest that altitude related environmental conditions may be associated with variations in physiological parameters among youth undergoing yogic asanas training.