A preliminary investigation of yoga as an intervention approach for improving long-term weight loss: A randomized trial.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of yoga (as a mindfulness-based intervention) within a weight management program following initial weight loss treatment.
Results Summary
Yoga showed high feasibility and acceptability, with no significant differences between groups on weight loss or most psychological measures at 6 months. However, among participants with high initial weight loss (≥5%), yoga led to greater weight loss, improved distress tolerance, mindfulness, self-compassion, and lower negative affect compared to the control group.
Population
60 women with overweight or obesity (BMI 34.3±3.9 kg/m², age 48.1±10.1 years).
Effective Dosage
12-week yoga intervention (2 sessions per week).
Duration
12 weeks.
Interactions
None mentioned.
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
yoga | no change | weight change | 60 women with overweight or obesity | - | did not differ | #1 |
yoga | no change | psychological constructs | 60 women with overweight or obesity | - | did not differ | #2 |
yoga | decrease | weight | those with high initial WL (≥5%) | -9.0kg vs. -6.7kg | lost significantly more weight | #3 |
yoga | increase | distress tolerance | those with high initial WL (≥5%) | - | resulted in greater | #4 |
yoga | increase | mindfulness | those with high initial WL (≥5%) | - | resulted in greater | #5 |
yoga | increase | self-compassion | those with high initial WL (≥5%) | - | resulted in greater | #6 |
yoga | decrease | negative affect | those with high initial WL (≥5%) | - | resulted in lower | #7 |
OBJECTIVE: Yoga targets psychological processes which may be important for long-term weight loss (WL). This study is the first to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of yoga within a weight management program following WL treatment. METHODS: 60 women with overweight or obesity (34.3±3.9 kg/m2, 48.1±10.1 years) were randomized to receive a 12-week yoga intervention (2x/week; YOGA) or a structurally equivalent control (cooking/nutrition classes; CON), following a 3-month behavioral WL program. Feasibility (attendance, adherence, retention) and acceptability (program satisfaction ratings) were assessed. Treatment groups were compared on weight change, mindfulness, distress tolerance, stress, affect, and self-compassion at 6 months. Initial WL (3-mo WL) was evaluated as a potential moderator. RESULTS: Attendance, retention, and program satisfaction ratings of yoga were high. Treatment groups did not differ on WL or psychological constructs (with exception of one mindfulness subscale) at 6 months. However, among those with high initial WL (≥5%), YOGA lost significantly more weight (-9.0kg vs. -6.7kg) at 6 months and resulted in greater distress tolerance, mindfulness, and self-compassion and lower negative affect, compared to CON. CONCLUSIONS: Study findings provide preliminary support for yoga as a potential strategy for improving long-term WL among those losing ≥5% in standard behavioral treatment.