Location
Solheim 104
Start Date
7-6-2024 10:15 AM
End Date
7-6-2024 11:00 AM
Description
This pilot study investigates the potential impact of yoga (Mukha Bhastrika) practice on reaction time in male high school athletes. While existing literature emphasizes the importance of reaction time in contact sports and the potential of calming exercises like yoga to reduce it, there remains a gap in the literature focusing on male high school athletes in contact sports. This pilot study utilized a randomized controlled trial with ten male high school athletes. The participants were divided into two groups: one practicing Mukha Bhastrika and the other serving as a control group which simply rested between reaction time tests. Reaction time was measured using the Fitlights Training System before and after the intervention. Analysis revealed a significant decrease in reaction time among the group practicing Mukha Bhastrika compared to the control group, suggesting a tangible benefit of this yoga practice in enhancing reaction time among male high school athletes in contact sports. However, limitations such as a small sample size and potential biases in data collection were acknowledged, highlighting avenues for future research. The findings underscore the potential of implementing Mukha Bhastrika techniques in high school sports programs to improve athletic performance and potentially reduce injury rates, contributing to the broader discourse on sports injury prevention and athlete well-being.
Recommended Citation
Ruiz, Malachi D. and Ruiz, Matthew D., "Mukha Bhastrika on Reaction Time in Male High School Athletes: A Pilot Study" (2024). CSKLS Annual Conference. 1.
https://digitalcollections.lipscomb.edu/cskls-conference/2024/Wednesday/1
Mukha Bhastrika on Reaction Time in Male High School Athletes: A Pilot Study
Solheim 104
This pilot study investigates the potential impact of yoga (Mukha Bhastrika) practice on reaction time in male high school athletes. While existing literature emphasizes the importance of reaction time in contact sports and the potential of calming exercises like yoga to reduce it, there remains a gap in the literature focusing on male high school athletes in contact sports. This pilot study utilized a randomized controlled trial with ten male high school athletes. The participants were divided into two groups: one practicing Mukha Bhastrika and the other serving as a control group which simply rested between reaction time tests. Reaction time was measured using the Fitlights Training System before and after the intervention. Analysis revealed a significant decrease in reaction time among the group practicing Mukha Bhastrika compared to the control group, suggesting a tangible benefit of this yoga practice in enhancing reaction time among male high school athletes in contact sports. However, limitations such as a small sample size and potential biases in data collection were acknowledged, highlighting avenues for future research. The findings underscore the potential of implementing Mukha Bhastrika techniques in high school sports programs to improve athletic performance and potentially reduce injury rates, contributing to the broader discourse on sports injury prevention and athlete well-being.
Christian Perspective of Presentation
Yoga is sometimes perceived as conflicting with Christian beliefs, yet this pilot study explores the mindfulness and relaxation facets of yoga, known for their positive impacts on physical and emotional well-being. By focusing on these aspects, the pilot study sheds light on how athletes can augment their performance through mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Importantly, these practices align with Christian values, emphasizing the stewardship of the body and the pursuit of holistic well-being. This research thus underscores the compatibility between ancient mindfulness traditions and Christian principles, offering a pathway for integrating faith and physicality in sports.