Respiratory Functions in Kalaripayattu Practitioners

C. Kesava Chandran, R. Harikumaran Nair and S. Shashidhar*

Physiological Chemistry Research Laboratory,School of Biosciences

Mahatma Gandhi University

Kottayam, Kerala – 686 560

Abstract : Kalaripayattu, an ancient traditional martial art form of Kerala, is considered as the basis for all martial arts viz. Karate, Kungfu, etc. physiological studies are more concentrated on Karate, Kungfu and other martial arts due to their global acceptance. Considering the limited knowledge available regarding the physiological profiles of Kalaripayattu practitioners, the present study was taken up for filling the lacunae in the field. Lung function tests were carried out in ten Kalari practitioners. Residual volume was measured by indirect method. Higher lung volumes and flow rates were achieved in Kalari practitioners compared to age and height-matched controls. Better mechanical factors and lower airway resistance influenced during Kalari practice might have benefited in improving hung volumes and flow rates.

Key words : lung volumes               flow rates             Kalaripayattu