Abstract
Background: Stress level can be estimated by evaluating the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels produced from lipid peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Accordingly, a holistic health care approach (instead of a conventional drug-based approach alone) for the treatment is highly recommended; development of a mind-body medicine or an inclusive approach of mind-body interactions is the need of the hour. Thus, the effect of yoga which comprises pranayama, asana, and meditation is more relaxing than the well-equipped gym schools of today which are very lucrative and attractive, but they are costly means of fitness. Yogic exercises are more relaxing and cost effective.

Aims and Objectives: The purpose of this study is to compare and see the effect of treadmill exercise and yoga on oxidative stress.

Materials and Methods: An observational study was conducted in Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology (Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Sawangi Meghe, Wardha, Maharashtra, India). 50 male subjects of age group 18-20 years, were divided into two groups, treadmill exercise (Group A) and yoga (Group B) consisting of 25 each. On regular exercise, subjects were assessed at the start of and after 3 months of the training schedule (45 min/5 days/week). Blood samples were collected to assess the MDA levels before and after the intervention. The parameter assessed were vital parameters (heart rate and pulse rate), VO2 max; they were also assessed for their social and environmental behavior by WHO-quality of life questionnaire. Results were compared using Student paired t-test and unpaired t-test and age-wise distribution by Chi-square test.

Result: Results showed that the pre-exercise levels of MDA in Group A (1.30 ± 0.1) and Group B (1.23 ± 0.1) and the postexercise levels in Group A (0.92 ± 0.2) and Group B (0.37 ± 0.2). There was an increase in the vital parameter in Group A, whereas no significant changes were observed in Group B. VO2max levels state that the oxygen requirement is more for Group A than Group B.

Conclusion: The study concludes that yoga has more beneficial effect than the treadmill exercise which helps to decrease the free radical production.

Key words: Treadmill Exercise and Yoga; Oxidative Stress; Free Radicals; Malondialdehyde