Abstract

Background: Exercise performed regularly is beneficial to the body. The previous studies in this field have shown that sportspersons have higher values of lung volumes in comparison to their control counterparts who are not engaged in any kind of regular physical exercise. Studies have shown that swimming produces the maximum effect on the lungs compared to any other sports. Nowadays, badminton is quite popular sports among younger as well as older generations. Badminton being a highly explosive sport involves a unique movement technique and strength over a relatively small court area. Regular practice of badminton has also a profound effect in improving pulmonary functions which can be comparable with that of swimming. Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the pulmonary function in swimmers and badminton players of Indore city. Material and Methods: This study was carried out on 20 swimmers and 20 badminton players in the age group between 20 to 30 years. The pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were recorded with the RMS - HELIOS 702 spirometer. The parameters of PFT taken into account were forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and peak expiratory flow rate. The paired and unpaired t-test was used at appropriate places as a statistical test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: Increases in pulmonary functions were observed in swimmers as compared to badminton players. Conclusion: Even though swimming has a profound effect on improving the lung functions than any other sports, but badminton may be used as an alternative sport in improving the pulmonary functions when swimming is not feasible.