A controlled trial assessing the acceptability and efficacy of a yoga-based eating disorder prevention program among division I athletes: Eat Breathe Thrive (EBT)

ABSTRACT

Objective

This study evaluated the acceptability and effectiveness of the Eat Breathe Thrive (EBT) program as an eating disorder prevention intervention among women collegiate athletes.

Method

Change over time in eating disorder risk and competencies of positive embodiment were examined in 94 women (n = 48 EBT participants and n = 46 matched-controls) from one National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I-classified university in the United States. Eating disorder risk factors were measured using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Aspects of positive embodiment were measured using the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA) and The Mindful Self-Care Scale (MSCS). Data were collected through participants’ completion of online surveys across three time-points.

Results

Repeated measures ANOVAS revealed EBT participants reported experiencing significantly less state anxiety and greater interoceptive body trusting over time relative to matched-controls. No other significant interactions were found. Respondents found the EBT program acceptable.

Discussion

Acceptability and partial support for integrative, yoga-based, interventions targeting Division I student-athletes is indicated.

Disclosure statement

Chelsea Roff is the Founder and Director of Eat Breathe Thrive, the nonprofit organization that offers the intervention assessed in this study. She did not participate in data collection, data analysis, or interpretation of results. This arrangement was reviewed and approved by the University at Buffalo Ethics Board in accordance with its policy on objectivity in research.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

The work was supported by the Lululemon Athletica, Give Back Yoga Foundation.