Characteristics of Yoga Practice and Predictors of Practice Frequency

Abstract

Abstract Yoga is a globally popular mind-body practice used for health. The objective of this study was to characterize yoga practice and factors associated with frequency of practice. Yoga practitioners were sent invitations via email to participate in an online survey. Yoga characteristics and other sociodemographics were collected. Data from 309 consenting respondents were analyzed for patterns in practice characteristics (yoga techniques, location of practice, method of instruction, teacher status, and yoga type). Associations between characteristics of practice and yoga practice frequency were computed. The following characteristics were then analyzed as predictors of practice frequency in a regression model: location of practice, method of instruction, teacher status, yoga type, and techniques. Most respondents reported use of all three yoga techniques (movements, breathing, and meditation) and practiced an average of 4.5 ± 1.9 days a week. Key characteristics such as location of practice, method of instruction, and frequency significantly differed by teacher status and by yoga type (Viniyoga practitioners vs. other yoga styles). In our regression model, being a yoga teacher, being taught a one-on-one yoga practice by someone else, and regular use of movement were positively associated with increased practice frequency. Our analyses provide insight into how yoga factors such as teacher status, method of instruction, and use of tools relate to practice frequency. Understanding the relationships between practice characteristics and practice frequency may allow for the improved implementation of yoga for health.