A preliminary investigation of yoga as an intervention approach for improving long-term weight loss: A randomized trial.

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.
Competing Interests: I have read the journal’s policy and the authors of this manuscript have the following competing interests. RRW is on the Scientific Advisory Board for Noom and has received financial compensation for this role. SAS is an Ambassador for Lululemon and has received goods to support her community work, but has not received any financial compensation for this role. Neither Noom or Lululemon played any role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. These commercial affiliations do not alter our adherence to PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials. The remaining authors declare no competing interests.