Effect of yogic pranayama on static balance and hand-eye coordination in intellectually disabled persons

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of yogic pranayama on static balance and hand-eye coordination among individuals with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities. A total of 30 participants (both male and female), aged 18-25 years, from B.B. Paul Mental Development Home, Mongshangei Lai Leirak, Imphal West (Manipur) were selected and randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group, each consisting of 15 participants. The study focused on two variables: static balance assessed using the Stork Stand Test and hand-eye coordination measured through the Target Ball Throw Test. Both groups were evaluated at baseline and again after a 12-week period. The experimental group underwent a structured pranayama training program for 12 weeks, while the control group did not participate in any intervention. Data were analyzed using a paired sample t-test through SPSS software with the level of significance set at 0.05. The results revealed significant improvements in both static balance and hand-eye coordination among participants in the experimental group following the training period. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the control group between pre-test and post-test scores. Based on these findings, it may be concluded that a 12-week pranayama intervention is effective in enhancing static balance and hand-eye coordination among individuals with intellectual disabilities. The results highlight pranayama as a simple, accessible and low-cost training method with potential benefits for motor development and functional independence in this population.