The Impact of Yoga Practice on Health, Strength, and Respiratory Capacity in Portuguese Airforce Pilots: an Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback Approach

Top performance in military aviation relies on strong health. Handgrip strength is key, showing overall strength and work capacity. Since rarefied air affects focus and mission success, respiratory training is essential. The impact of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga on Portuguese Air Force Academy pilots from the 2021 and 2022 classes was assessed, aiming to enhance health, lung capacity, and strength. A randomized controlled trial involved 18 individuals from the "Masters in Military Aeronautics: aviator pilot specialist". Participants were randomly assigned to yoga classes (intervention n=10) or a waiting list (control n=8). General health, strength, and respiratory capacity were measured using SF-36 questionnaire, a hand-grip dynamometer, and a spirometer, respectively, before and after a 12-week yoga program. Parametric and non-parametric tests were conducted using Jamovi (version 2.3.26). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT05821270, registered on April 19, 2023.Revealed significant within-group differences pre- vs post-intervention for general health, handgrip strength, and FEV1%. There was a significant difference between groups for lung capacity.Yoga participants showcased superior results versus controls, suggesting yoga's positive impact. The yoga protocol, in conjunction with military training, positively affected health, strength, and lung performance, highlighting its operational benefits even in highly trained individuals.