Effects of aerobic exercise on pulmonary function tests in healthy adults

Background: Healthy living and physical fitness are closely related. Physical activity is known to improve physical fitness and to reduce morbidity and mortality from numerous chronic ailments. This study was done to evaluate the effects of aerobic exercise on pulmonary function tests in healthy adult volunteers. Exercise is the body’s most common physiologic stress, and it places major demands on the cardiopulmonary systemMethods: The present study was done to study the effects of aerobic exercise on pulmonary function tests in 65 healthy adult volunteers in age group of 20- 35 years. The same volunteers were chosen as both study as well as control group in order to minimize the confounding factors and make the study reproducible. The pulmonary function tests were carried out with a computerized spirometer medgraphics.Results: The study revealed that the pulmonary functions are improved after undergoing aerobic exercise training. Regular aerobic exercise is related to better cardiorespiratory efficiency and good pulmonary function. Higher lung volumes and flow rates were achieved in aerobic trainees after their training period, as compared to their own values obtained before their training period.Conclusions: The present study suggests that there is an improvement in pulmonary functions following aerobic exercise training. Hence regular physical activity causes many desirable physiological, psychological and physical changes in the individual.