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Functional fitness improvements after a worksite-based yoga initiative

2009; Elsevier BV; Volume: 14; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.jbmt.2009.02.006

1532-9283

Virginia S. Cowen,

Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions

Summary This study explored the benefits of yoga on functional fitness, flexibility, and perceived stress. A quasi-experimental design was used to measure benefits of yoga in sample of firefighters from a major metropolitan fire department. Yoga classes were conducted on-shift, in the fire stations over the period of 6 weeks. The classes included pranayama (breathing), asana (postures), and savasana (relaxation); 108 firefighters enrolled in the study, most were physically active but had no prior experience with yoga. Baseline and post-yoga assessments were completed by 77 participants. Paired t -tests revealed significant improvements in the Functional Movement Screen, a seven item test that measures functional fitness. Improvements were also noted in trunk flexibility and perceived stress. Participants also reported favorable perceptions of yoga: feeling more focused and less musculoskeletal pain. These findings – along with the retention of the majority of the participants – indicate that participants benefited from yoga.