A Pilot Study of a Positive Body Image Yoga Intervention for a Men and Women Across Adulthood

Background: Yoga interventions have been shown to promote positive body image, although these studies have focused predominantly on young women. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a positive body image yoga intervention in a sample of men and women across the adult lifespan, and to examine the potential changes in body image following the intervention. Methods: Sixty-two adults (≥18 years of age) who were not engaging in yoga were recruited from a small Canadian city. Participants were randomly assigned to a 10-week yoga or waitlist control group. Participants self-reported demographic information; they completed body image measures online at baseline, 5 weeks, and program end. Study adherence, retention, and dropout rates were measured at program end to assess feasibility and acceptability. Results. The mean age of the sample was 52 years; 93% identified as White and 86% identified as a woman. Among the 57 participants who were randomized, 22 dropped out of the study. Twenty-one participants randomized to the yoga group attended at least one yoga session and the mean attendance was seven out of 10 classes. Eighteen (control) and 16 (yoga intervention) participants completed week 10 measures. All 30 yoga sessions were delivered as planned. There were significant group-by-time interactions for changes in functionality appreciation (η ² _p = .168, p = .005) and body satisfaction with body function ( η ² _p = .105, p = .047) in favor of those in the yoga intervention group. Conclusions: This pilot study provided insight into conducting a fully randomized controlled trial of a yoga program to improve positive body image in men and women across the adult lifespan. Although some changes, particularly to the recruitment of men and younger individuals, are necessary in subsequent studies, in general the yoga program was feasible to deliver and acceptable to participants. Changes to the control group to make it more acceptable would be beneficial. Exploratory analysis indicated the program could improve positive body image facets. Trial Registration: NCT05899881. Registered on June 12, 2023.