Comparison of computerized dynamic posturography and functional head impulse test scores obtained after 30 minutes of Hatha yoga practice and resistance-based aerobic exercise in adult female yoga practitioners

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of a thirty-minute session of Hatha yoga and a thirty-minute session of resistance-based aerobic exercise on balance and vestibulo-ocular reflex in adult female yoga practitioners. Methods: Ten participants underwent balance and vestibulo-ocular reflex assessments at rest, after Hatha yoga, and after resistance-based aerobic exercise. Balance was measured using computerized dynamic posturography, and vestibulo-ocular reflex was evaluated with a functional head impulse test. The Hatha yoga session included twenty-five minutes of yoga poses followed by five minutes of relaxation. The aerobic exercise session was performed at an intensity of seventy to seventy-five percent of heart rate reserve. Results: No significant changes were observed in vestibulo-ocular reflex parameters across conditions. However, balance scores showed significant improvements following resistance-based aerobic exercise compared to both resting and Post-Yoga conditions. The somatosensory and visual system scores increased significantly after resistance-based aerobic exercise, as did the overall balance score. Lower body weight, lean body mass, and total body water were positively associated with better balance outcomes. Conclusion: While neither Hatha yoga nor resistance-based aerobic exercise acutely influenced vestibulo-ocular reflex, resistance-based aerobic exercise had immediate positive effects on balance and postural stability.