Yoga for Abdominal Obesity

Randomized-controlled Trial of Yoga for Women With Abdominal Obesity

The aim of this randomized trial is to investigate the effects of a 12-week yoga intervention compared to no specific intervention on weight-related outcomes, well-being, and health behaviour in 60 females with abdominal obesity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Waist circumference at least 88cm
• Body mass index at least 25
• Sedentary
• Physical and mental ability to participate in the yoga intervention
• Willingness to participate in at least 18 of 24 yoga sessions and the whole-day workshop

Exclusion Criteria:

• Dementia
• Psychosis
• Severe hypertension (diastolic blood pressure more than 120mmHg)
• Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent 2 diabetes
• Coronary artery disease
• Myocardial infarction
• Lung embolism
• Stroke
• Regular physical activity or yoga practice
• Pregnancy