Influence of fast and slow Surya Namaskar on physiological variables among college male handball players

Handball is a high-intensity sport requiring superior cardiorespiratory fitness and efficient physiological functioning. Yogic practices such as Surya Namaskar may serve as effective supplementary conditioning methods to improve aerobic capacity and recovery in athletes. The study was to examine the influence of fast and slow Surya Namaskar training on physiological variables among college male handball players. Forty-five male handball players aged 18-25 years were selected from Alagappa University-affiliated colleges. The subjects were randomly assigned into three squads (n=15 each): Squad I (fast Surya Namaskar), Squad II (slow Surya Namaskar), and Squad III (control). The treatment squads underwent an 8-week Surya Namaskar training program, while the control squad followed their routine without additional training. VO₂ max and resting heart rate were assessed before and after the interference. The data were analysed using SPSS-26 T-Test & ANOVA. The results revealed significant improvements in VO₂ max and significant reductions in resting heart rate in both fast and slow Surya Namaskar squads compared to the control squad. The study concludes that both fast and slow Surya Namaskar practices are effective training interventions for improving cardiorespiratory fitness and lowering resting heart rate among college handball players.