Modulation of cardiovascular response to exercise by yoga training

METHODS: This study reports the effects of yoga training on cardiovascular response to exercise and the time course of recovery after the exercise. Cardiovascular response to exercise was determined by the Harvard step test using a platform of 45 cm height. The subjects were asked to step up and down the platform at a rate of 30/min for a total duration of 5 min or until fatigue, whichever was earlier. Heart rate (HR) and blood pressure response to exercise were measured in the supine position before exercise and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 10 minutes after the exercise. RESULTS: Exercise produced a significant increase in HR, systolic pressure and a significant decrease in diastolic pressure. After two months of yoga training, exercise-induced changes in these parameters were significantly reduced.