Differential Effects of Yoga with Breath Regulation versus Stretching on Inflammatory Biomarkers and Functional Fitness in Middle-Aged Women

Purpose: This study investigated the efficacy of yoga incorporating systematic breath regulation (Pranayama) on inflammatory markers and functional physical fitness in middle-aged women. A primary objective was to isolate the specific physiological contribution of breath control by comparing the yoga intervention with a duration- and volume-matched stretching program. Method: A total of sixty-four women were randomized into three groups: a yoga group (Pranayama combined with Asana), a stretching group, and a sedentary control group. The interventions were conducted over 12 weeks, consisting of three 60-minute sessions per week. Serum concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL- 6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and adiponectin, along with various functional fitness parameters, were measured at baseline and after the intervention. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to evaluate treatment effects while adjusting for baseline variability. Results: The yoga group demonstrated significant reductions in IL-6 and TNF-α ( p