Are you trying to make sense of all the conflicting narratives about fitness? Learn how to ground your teaching practice in science-based research instead. The ...
This conversation explores the gender dynamics in yoga, focusing on why more women participate in yoga than men. The hosts discuss a research paper that examines the barriers and facilitators for male participation in yoga, highlighting the need for role models, encouragement, and the impact of societal gender norms. They also reflect on the importance of deconstructing these norms to create a more inclusive yoga community. Takeaways Yoga is often perceived as a feminine activity by men. Men require encouragement from friends and health professionals to try yoga. Self-consciousness and fear of judgment deter men from participating in yoga. The marketing of yoga tends to target women, which may discourage men. Men are surprised by the physical challenges of yoga classes. Encouragement and community support are crucial for male participation in yoga. Gender perceptions play a significant role in men's reluctance to practice yoga. Communicating the benefits of yoga to men is essential but not sufficient. Deconstructing patriarchal norms can help increase male participation in yoga. The presence of male yoga teachers can influence men's participation in yoga. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gender Disparities in Yoga 06:12 Understanding Barriers for Men in Yoga 11:44 Encouragement and Gender Perceptions 17:12 The Role of Marketing and Community in Yoga 22:09 Conclusion and Limitations of the Study Â
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Episode 73: Is Text Neck Causing Your Neck Pain?
In this episode, Ariana and Jules discuss the concept of 'text neck' and its potential link to neck pain. They explore a recent scoping review that examines whether the position of the neck while using smartphones is a causative factor for neck pain, utilizing Hill's criteria of causation. The conversation delves into the nuances of correlation versus causation, the limitations of current research, and the biopsychosocial model of health, ultimately concluding that text neck does not meet the criteria for causing neck pain. Â Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Text Neck and Neck Pain 02:55 Understanding the Research Paper 05:28 Exploring Hill's Criteria of Causation 09:32 Correlation vs. Causation in Neck Pain 11:07 Findings on Text Neck and Neck Pain13:29 Broader Factors Influencing Neck Pain 14:40 Limitations of the Study and Conclusion Â
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Episode 72: RCTs vs. Pilot Studies vs. Feasibility Studies: A Simple Guide for Yoga Teachers
Episode 71: Can Online Yoga Support Cancer Patients? Insights from a New Study Protocol
In this episode, Ariana and Jules discuss a planned study on the efficacy of an online yoga intervention for cancer patients, specifically those with high-grade gliomas, and their caregivers. They explore the unique aspects of the study, including its design, the importance of trial registration, and the challenges faced in previous online yoga research. The conversation highlights the potential benefits of online yoga for improving overall well-being in this vulnerable population.  Takeaways 🌟The study focuses on high-grade glioma patients and their caregivers. 🌟Online yoga is a complementary treatment alongside traditional medical care. 🌟Trial registration ensures transparency in research methodologies. 🌟Self-reported outcomes and physiological measurements will be assessed. 🌟Caregivers often experience higher levels of anxiety and depression than patients. 🌟The study aims to alleviate distress through an eight-week yoga program. 🌟Online interventions can increase accessibility for patients with mobility issues. 🌟Previous studies faced challenges regarding safety and correct form in online yoga. 🌟The shift to online yoga due to COVID-19 may have positive implications for accessibility. 🌟Future research is needed to explore the efficacy of online yoga interventions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Yoga Study for Cancer Patients 02:40 Study Design and Methodology 05:45 The Importance of Trial Registration 08:42 Unique Aspects of the Yoga Intervention 11:17 Challenges and Insights from Previous Studies 14:33 The Future of Online Yoga Research Â
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Episode 70: The Reliability and Validity of Pain Surveys
In this episode, Ariana and Jules discuss the significance of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in understanding patient experiences, particularly in the context of pain management. They delve into a specific study focused on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), exploring the methods used to validate and shorten these surveys for better usability. The conversation highlights the importance of reliability and validity in research, the limitations of the study, especially regarding gender representation, and the insights gained from the survey questions. The episode emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in dealing with patients experiencing pain. Takeaways *PROMs are essential for clinicians to understand treatment plans. *The study aimed to shorten long surveys for better usability. *Reliability refers to the consistency of a test or survey. *Validity measures the accuracy of the survey results. *The biopsychosocial model is crucial in understanding pain. *Expert opinions were used to validate the survey questions. *The study had a significant male bias in its sample. *Pain experiences can differ significantly between genders. *Compassionate communication is key when dealing with pain. *Meta-science plays a vital role in developing effective surveys. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PROMs and Their Importance 03:11 Understanding the Paper: Pain Catastrophizing and Kinesiophobia 06:09 The Process of Shortening Surveys 08:59 Reliability vs. Validity in Research 11:49 Limitations of the Study 14:57 Insights from the Survey Questions 17:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Are you trying to make sense of all the conflicting narratives about fitness? Learn how to ground your teaching practice in science-based research instead. The Yoga Research & Beyond Podcast helps yoga teachers and fitness professionals discern popular messages about the benefits and dangers of how our bodies move. Co-hosts Ariana Raven and Jules Mitchell discuss published research on yoga and exercise, challenge dominant trends about the human body, and teach research literacy in a fun and engaging way.
About The Hosts:
Ariana Raven is a yoga teacher and strength trainer who co-runs New York Stretch in NYC. For more than ten years, she’s been helping people reach their goals with a holistic approach that combines principles from yoga, exercise science, and published research. Find her at arianaraven.com.
Jules Mitchell is a disrupter, yoga teacher, and the author of Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined. She is based in Las Vegas, Nevada, and leads advanced continuing education programs in biomechanics for fitness and rehab professionals worldwide. Find her at julesmitchell.com.