Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Physical fitness plays a crucial role in enhancing athletic performance, reducing injury risks, and promoting overall health. In softball, athletes require a combination of strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility to optimize performance. Traditional conditioning methods such as running and weight training are commonly used; however, holistic practices like yoga, particularly Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation), are gaining attention for their potential benefits. Surya Namaskar is a dynamic sequence of twelve postures synchronized with controlled breathing, known to improve flexibility, muscular strength, cardiovascular health, and mental focus. Despite its recognized advantages, limited research has explored its specific effects on softball players' physical fitness. This study aims to assess the impact of regular Surya Namaskar practice on key fitness components-strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility-among school-level softball players. The findings will provide insights into integrating yoga into athletic training programs, offering a complementary approach to enhancing overall physical performance in dynamic sports like softball.