The strength of respiratory muscles and vital capacity of lungs are related to the health of humans. Studies have shown that athletic performance can be improved through respiratory muscle training. Besides, yoga is an exercise focusing on conscious respiratory control to inhale more oxygen slowly and deeply, and to increase the vital capacity and lung function through long-term practice. The breathing control, respiration and stretching in yoga could enhance the respiratory capacity and relax muscles in the chest, which strengthen respiratory muscles and expand lung capacity. This study reviewed the effects of yoga on respiratory muscle and lung function in different population, and provided alternatives to physical activities for the public in general and instructors of physical education. The available literature indicated that either short-term or long-term intervention of yoga contributes to improve the respiratory muscle strength (MIP, MEP) and pulmonary function (FVC, FEV1) in humans.