Author(s): Abid Ali Mansoori and Archana Chahal

Abstract:
The present Experimental Study investigated the effects of selected yogic practices and aerobics on muscular strength and body composition among school children aged 13-16 years. Seventy-five pupils were randomly assigned into five groups (n = 15 each): Suryanamaskar (SP), Pranayama (PP), Aerobics (AP), Combined (CP Suryanamaskar + Pranayama + Aerobics), and Control (CG). Each experimental group underwent an 8-week training program, 5 sessions/week of 30 to 35 minutes/session; the control group continued usual school activities. Muscular strength was assessed by the Push-ups Test (number of push-ups in 1 minute) and body composition by Body Mass Index (BMI, kg/m²). Pre- and post-test scores were analysed using paired t-tests for within-group change and one-way ANOVA for between-group post-test comparisons. All experimental groups showed significant improvements in at least one outcome. Aerobics and Combined groups demonstrated the largest gains in push-ups (muscular strength), while Suryanamaskar, Pranayama, and Combined groups showed significant reductions in BMI. One-way ANOVA showed significant differences among groups on post-test push-ups (F;(4,70) = 22.06, p<.001) and post-test BMI (F;(4,70) = 6.49, p<.001). Findings suggest that combined programs integrating yogic practices with aerobics offer the most comprehensive benefits; schools should consider mixed programming for holistic child fitness and development.

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