The effect of a Hatha Yoga practice on hamstring flexibility.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Limited research exists on the specific effects of Hatha yoga on hamstring flexibility in young, healthy adults.
• Assessing flexibility is crucial for functional movement and injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a 7-week Hatha yoga intervention on hamstring flexibility.
• To determine if Hatha yoga can enhance hamstring flexibility in college-aged individuals.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one healthy college students (mean age 21) participated in a 7-week Hatha yoga program.
• Yoga sessions were conducted twice weekly for 110 minutes each.
• Hamstring flexibility was measured using a digital goniometer before and after the intervention for both legs.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant improvement in hamstring flexibility was observed post-intervention (p < .05).
• The average increase in range of motion for hamstring flexibility was 4 degrees in both the right and left legs.
• The intervention demonstrated moderate effect sizes for both legs (d=0.77 right, d=0.52 left).

Conclusions:

• A 7-week progressive Hatha yoga program effectively enhances hamstring flexibility in young adults.
• Hatha yoga can serve as a valuable modality for improving flexibility and functional capacity.
• The findings suggest potential benefits for activities of daily living and athletic performance.