NCT06724796

Yoga 4 Body Image (Y4BI): Investigating the Impact of Yoga on Body Image and Eating Behaviours

Yoga 4 Body Image (Y4BI): Investigating the Impact of Yoga on Body Image and Eating Behaviours in Young Women

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 100 (estimated)
• Sponsor: University of Padova · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 18 Years – 35 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

The practice of yoga can positively impact body image, a psychological construct encompassing perceptual, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, which can be either positive or negative. Negative body image manifests as extreme dissatisfaction with one's body-a condition particularly common among young women-that places them at significant risk for developing Body Image Disorders (BIDs). In contrast, positive body image is characterized by an overall respect for one's body. Current research on the impact of yoga on body image has several limitations, making it challenging to determine whether yoga practice truly has a positive effect on body image and to identify the mechanisms underlying this impact. To address these gaps, the present project aims to overcome the limitations of existing studies by investigating the impact of yoga on body image through quantitative methodologies and by exploring the mechanisms that drive this effect. The project consists of two phases: 1. Investigating the impact of yoga on body image (both positive and negative) and eating behaviours in a population characterized by high levels of body dissatisfaction-young women. 2. Examining the psychological mechanisms underlying yoga's impact on body image, including increased interoceptive awareness, embodiment, and self-compassion, as well as a reduction in self-objectification.

Conditions

• Body Dissatisfaction
• Body Image
• Eating Behaviors

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Y4BI	The yoga classes will follow the Iyengar method, one of the most widely practiced traditional yoga styles, aimed at promoting body alignment and precision in executing poses (asanas) through the use of props such as blankets, straps, cushions, chairs, and blocks, making the poses accessible to all individuals. The classes will be conducted once a week, in groups, with each session lasting 1 hour. They will be led by a qualified instructor with over 10 years of teaching experience in yoga. The classes will be adapted for beginners who do not practice yoga regularly.
OTHER	ACTIVE	The total body classes will take place once a week, with each session lasting one hour. They will be led by a kinesiology specialist in preventive and adapted physical activities.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-11-30
• Primary completion: 2025-07-31
• Completion: 2026-07-31
• First posted: 2024-12-09
• Last updated: 2025-03-25

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Italy