Kinematics of Suryanamaskar Using Three-Dimensional Motion Capture

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Kinesiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Suryanamaskar, a 12-pose yoga sequence, is recognized for benefits in obesity management, physical fitness, muscle endurance, and flexibility.
• Limited research exists on the biomechanical demands, specifically kinematics and kinetics, of Suryanamaskar.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spinal, upper extremity, and lower extremity kinematics during Suryanamaskar.
• To improve the understanding of Suryanamaskar for safe and precise prescription in managing musculoskeletal disorders.

Main Methods:

• Three-dimensional motion capture (12-camera Vicon System) of Suryanamaskar performed by 10 trained yoga practitioners.
• Utilized 39 retro-reflective markers and plug-in-gait model for data processing, with analog data filtered at 10Hz.
• Computed joint angles for spine, upper, and lower extremities across 12 poses using Vicon Nexus software.

Main Results:

• Joint motion was predominantly symmetrical, with exceptions in poses 4 and 9.
• Spine exhibited 58° flexion to 44° extension; hip moved from 134° flexion to 15° extension.
• Significant ranges of motion observed in knee (140° flexion, 3° hyperextension), ankle (40° dorsiflexion, 10° plantarflexion), neck (76° extension), shoulder (183°-56°), elbow (22°-116°), and wrist (85° to 3° extension).

Conclusions:

• The wide range of flexion and extension in Suryanamaskar can enhance mobility across most body joints.
• The practice stretches anterior and posterior soft tissues and challenges postural balance via a variable base of support.
• Understanding these biomechanical aspects is crucial for optimizing Suryanamaskar's therapeutic applications.