Using such methods as questionnaire survey and experimental study, a study has been made on the effects of yoga on female college students’ body shape, the quality of physical function, mental health and so on. Methods: The study sampled 25 2009 female students in Handan College who have selected the yoga course. These students will do yoga practice for 6 months. The body shape, body function and mental health will be tested before and after the exercise. The results show that: such four indicators as body weight, waist circumference, thigh circumference and upper arm circumference; such 6 indicators as vital capacity, heart rate, VO2, sit-ups, step test, and Sit and Reach and such indicators as mental health self-assessment questionnaire (SCL--90), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS) have been improved significantly compared to those before practice. Conclusion: Through yoga practice, female college students can improve their physical health, balance physical and mental condition, and relieve stress, enhancing the quality of physical function and mental health.
Effects of yoga exercise on body shape and cardiovascular function of female college students