Exploring the Effects of Yoga on the Resting Metabolic Rate and Fat-to-Muscle Ratio of Medical Students: A Six-Week Interventional Study.

Introduction There is a growing body of research examining the effects of yoga on health outcomes; however, limited research has focused specifically on its impact on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body composition. Understanding how yoga training influences these parameters in healthy young adults could provide valuable insights into the potential mechanisms underlying the health benefits of yoga. This study was planned to investigate the effect of short-term (six weeks) yoga training on RMR and the fat-to-muscle ratio in healthy young adults. Methods This randomized controlled trial was initiated after registration with the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI) and obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Fifty apparently healthy medical students, between 20 and 25 years of age and fulfilling the inclusion criteria, were randomly assigned to the "Yoga Group" or the "Control Group." The Yoga Group received yoga training according to a standard protocol for six weeks. Weight, body mass index (BMI), RMR, and fat-to-muscle ratio were measured at baseline and after six weeks of yoga training using a body composition analyzer. Results No significant difference was observed in RMR or any of the anthropometric measures between the Control Group (without yoga) and the Yoga Group after six weeks of yoga training. However, the mean change (baseline to six-week value) was significantly greater in the Yoga Group compared to the Control Group for weight (0.20 ± 2.25 vs. -0.68 ± 0.70) and BMI (0.17 ± 2.26 vs. -0.82 ± 1.11). Conclusion No significant improvements were observed in RMR or fat-to-muscle ratio following six weeks of yoga; however, minor changes in weight and BMI suggest possible longer-term effects. To achieve a change in fat-to-muscle ratio and to induce alterations in resting and basal metabolic rate, a more rigorous (e.g., power yoga) and prolonged, regular regimen of yoga training may be required.