Functional fitness improvements after a worksite-based yoga initiative. 


Author: Cowen VS.  

Affiliation: Department of Health, Physical Education and Dance, The City University of New York, Bayside, 11364, USA. gscowen@msn.com 
Conference/Journal: J Bodyw Mov Ther.
Date published: 2010 Jan
Other:
 Volume ID: 14   ,  Issue ID: 1   ,  Pages: 50-4   ,  Word Count: 144  
    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.