Evaluating the effect of pranayama training on blood pressure and breath-holding time ability among beginner hockey players

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the effect of a 9-week pranayama training programme on blood pressure and breath-holding time (BHT) among beginner school-level hockey players. Sixty participants (age 14-17 years) were purposively selected and divided into two equal groups: a Pranayama Group (n = 30) and a Control Group (n = 30). A pre-post experimental design was used. The pranayama group underwent a structured 9-week training protocol involving Anulom Vilom, Bhramari, Kapalbhati (light), and guided breath-holding practices, while the control group continued their regular hockey training. Blood pressure was measured using a clinically validated digital sphygmomanometer, and breath-holding time was measured with a digital stopwatch. Results indicated significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.05) and a substantial increase in BHT in the pranayama group compared to the control group. The control group showed no meaningful changes. The study concludes that pranayama practices are effective in improving cardiovascular regulation and respiratory endurance in young beginner hockey players. Incorporating pranayama into sports training may enhance athletic performance and physiological resilience.