International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation

Effect of Agnisara Kriya On Cardiopulmonary Variables and Anthropometric Measurements in Overweight Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Shrish Prabhakar Bellad¹, Archana K², Amshuman R Yadav³, Vanita Shetty⁴

1. ¹
2. ²
3. ³
4. ⁴

Abstract

Background: Overweight adversely affects the human body by increasing strain on the cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems. Excess body fat can lead to elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, reduced lung efficiency, and breathing difficulty by chronic inflammation. It may also contribute to metabolic disease, reduced physical activity, joint stress, and decreased overall health and quality of life by affecting the mental and physical body of an individual. Agnisara Kriya is a traditional yogic practice involving rapid contraction and relaxation of the abdominal muscles during breath retention after exhalation. The practice is believed to stimulate abdominal organs, improve digestion, increase circulation, and enhance respiratory efficiency. Previous studies have reported beneficial effects of yogic practices on gastric motility and metabolic health. However, there no scientific evidence available regarding the specific effects of Agnisara Kriya on cardiopulmonary variables and anthropometric measurements among overweight individuals. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of Agnisara Kriya on selected cardiopulmonary variables and anthropometric measurements in overweight individuals. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted among 60 overweight individuals aged 18–30 years. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: an Agnisara Kriya group (n = 30) and a Control group (n = 30). The intervention group practiced Agnisara Kriya for a specified duration, seven days per week for 30 days, while the control group continued their routine activities without any intervention. Cardiopulmonary variables including pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, along with anthropometric measurements such as Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference, were assessed before and after the intervention using standardized instruments and procedures. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results: After 30 days, participants who practiced Agnisara Kriya showed a significant increase in SBP (115 ± 3.41 to 123 ± 3.94, p < 0.001) and a reduction in BMI (26.5 ± 1.53 to 26.4 ± 1.50, p < 0.001). Waist circumference also decreased significantly (92.2 ± 2.82 to 90.8 ± 3.02, p < 0.001) compared to the control group. No adverse effects or dropouts occurred during the study. Conclusion: Four weeks of regular Agnisara Kriya practice resulted in significant reductions in BMI and waist circumference, suggesting beneficial effects on abdominal adiposity and weight regulation in overweight individuals. These effects may be mediated through repetitive abdominal contractions that stimulate gastrointestinal activity, improve abdominal muscle tone, enhance metabolic function, and promote autonomic regulation. On immediate effect there was increased systolic blood pressure soon after the practice of agnisara kriya. The observed changes indicate that Agnisara Kriya may support energy balance and central fat reduction through neurophysiological and metabolic mechanisms. Furthermore, the absence of adverse effects or participant dropouts highlights the safety and clinical feasibility of incorporating this yogic practice as a complementary intervention in overweight management.  

Keywords: Agnisara kriyaCardiopulmonary variables (BPPRRR)Anthropometric measurements (WCBMI)Overweight

How to cite

Licensed under CC BY 4.0.