PATH Trial for Examining Yoga as a Strategy to Improve Remote-Based Weight Loss in Adults: Protocol for a Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Obesity research
• Behavioral medicine
• Integrative health

Background:

• Over 70% of US adults are overweight or obese, with limited success in current weight loss (WL) programs.
• Internet-delivered WL (IDWL) overcomes barriers but underperforms compared to in-person treatments.
• Yoga shows potential for improving self-regulation and reducing dietary lapses, key factors for WL success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct the first fully powered randomized controlled trial assessing the added effect of yoga to IDWL.
• To evaluate yoga's impact on weight, dietary lapses, lapse triggers, and self-regulation.
• To determine if yoga enhances the efficacy of virtual weight loss interventions.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month randomized controlled trial involving adults with overweight or obesity.
• Participants receive IDWL treatment, with one group adding virtual Iyengar yoga.
• Assessments include weight, questionnaires, ecological momentary assessments, and accelerometry over 18 months.

Main Results:

• Enrollment began in February 2024 and is ongoing, with data collection extending to June 2028.
• This trial is the first fully powered study to assess virtually delivered yoga combined with IDWL beyond six months.
• Preliminary findings are anticipated following the trial's completion.

Conclusions:

• This trial will provide crucial insights into the combined efficacy of yoga and IDWL.
• Results will inform whether yoga can be a valuable component for improving IDWL treatment outcomes.
• The study aims to enhance the effectiveness of virtual weight management strategies.