Abstract

Background: Exercises of different forms, if performed regularly, have a beneficial effect on the various systems of the body. Badminton is claimed to be the world’s fastest racket sport. Aside the technical, tactical, and training aspects of modern competitive badminton, the physical demands are continually changing. Relaxation techniques like Rajyoga meditation have been used in sport primarily to enhance recovery from training and competition, manage anxiety and improve performance. Aims &
Objective: To compare the efficacy of physical performance in badminton players, before and after with regard to Rajyoga meditation. Material and Methods: 35 male badminton players were studied prospectively before and six months after practicing Rajyoga meditation. Blood lactate concentration and Pulmonary functions were assessed immediately after 10 minutes of exercise. Other Physical Parameters like BMI, pulse rate, blood pressure were also assessed before and after 6 months of meditation and analysed using longitudinal study.
Results: Student’s paired ‘t’ test was used to compare pre & post interventional results. After the relaxation training, blood lactate concentration after exercise was significantly decreased (p<0.05). All parameters of lung functions showed statistical improvements after meditation, there was significant differences with regard to BMI, blood pressure and pulse rate all were significantly decreased (p<0.05). Conclusion: The results obtained emphasize the beneficial effect of Rajyoga meditation. Finding of the present study suggests that Rajyoga meditation can alter blood lactate levels and pulmonary functions after exercise.