Research Article Open Access

Anthropometric and General Health Measures in Elderly Exercisers and Yoga Practitioners: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Obesity is a growing problem, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality from weight-related diseases and reduced quality of life. The association between elevated BMI and subsequent disability provides evidence that obesity in older populations is associated with a substantial increase in risk for poor health outcomes. A total 102 elderly male subject above 60 yrs of age selected for study. Thee groups were prepared with 34 subject in each group. Group 1 subjects who are practicing yoga more than 3yrs. Group 2 subject doing daily light exercise for last 3yrs. Group 3 control group who are not practicing yoga or exercise. Height, Weight, BMI, mid arm circumference, mid calf circumference, waist hip ratio and BMR recorded. Socio demographic and general health questionnaire recorded and data analyzed. Result of present study shows that the yoga group have lower thresholds of BMI and BMR. Anthropometric norms are with in normal limits for their respective age. Yoga group reported better health, lower somatic symptoms, anxiety and depressive state. Yoga rather than physical exercise is recommended for preventive and promotive health in elderly.

J Prasannakumar, Sharad Kole, Shashikant S Kumbar, and KM Padmavathy

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