2025, Vol. 12, Issue 1, Part F

Yoga is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits in athletic training, including improvements in flexibility, balance, and mental well-being. This study investigated the effects of an eight-week yoga training program on key performance variables in both combative and non-combative sports. Thirty athletes were divided into two groups: a combative sports group (n=15; e.g., boxing, martial arts) and a non-combative sports group (n=15; e.g., swimming, track and field). Both groups underwent an identical eight-week yoga intervention. Pre- and post-training data were collected for flexibility (Sit and Reach Test), balance (Stork Stand Test), and competitive anxiety (Sports Competition Anxiety Test - SCAT). Paired t-tests revealed significant improvements in flexibility, balance, and a significant reduction in anxiety within both groups (p<0.05). An Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) showed that while both groups improved, the combative sports group demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in anxiety compared to the non-combative group (p<0.05). These findings suggest that yoga is a beneficial training supplement for all athletes, with a particularly strong impact on the psychological well-being of those in combative sports.