Enhancing respiratory function through Yoga and Pilates in women aged 45-50.

Background and Study Aim Respiratory function in women aged 45-50 often declines due to natural physiological changes associated with aging. These changes include reduced lung elasticity, decreased diaphragm efficiency, and a general reduction in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a combined yoga and Pilates program on respiratory function in women aged 45-50. Material and Methods The study involved 38 women with an average age of 47.7 ± 2.5 years. A pedagogical experiment was conducted over six months. The experimental group (n=19) participated in a training regimen focused on improving respiratory function through a combination of yoga and Pilates. The control group (n=19) followed a yoga-based training program. Both groups completed an equal number of sessions--72 in total. The external respiratory function of the participants was assessed using spirometry at two key points: at the beginning of the study and after six months. Results The comparison of respiratory function indicators between the experimental and control groups after 6 months of training revealed significant differences across most parameters. The actual value of Vital Capacity was significantly greater in the experimental group compared to the control group by 0.17 L (p < 0.01), forced vital capacity by 0.30 L (p < 0.01), forced expiratory volume by 0.19 L (p < 0.01), peak expiratory flow by 0.23 L/sec (p < 0.01), maximum expiratory flow at 25% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.96 L/sec (p < 0.001), maximum expiratory flow at 50% of Forced Vital Capacity by 0.59 L/sec (p < 0.001), expiratory reserve volume by 0.47 L (p < 0.001), and maximal voluntary ventilation by 17.00 L/min (p < 0.001). Conclusions The combined Yoga and Pilates training regimen was more effective in improving external respiratory function than Yoga alone. This result highlights the benefits of an integrated approach to respiratory health for women aged 45-50. The study demonstrates the potential advantages of combining different types of exercise to counteract age-related declines in respiratory function. Such programs could play a significant role in promoting overall well-being in this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]