Body image in women practicing yoga or other forms of fitness

Abstract

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to compare the body image of women practicing yoga and other forms of fitness. Subject or material and methods: 112 adult women practicing group forms of fitness (yoga – group A, other – group B) were examined using: Body-Esteem Scale (BES), Figure Rating Scale (FRS), The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results: High scores in the IPAQ were present in the majority of both group and the difference between groups was not statistically significant. In all the subscales of BES (sexual attractiveness, weight concern, physical condition) high scores predominated in group A, and low in group B. Differences between the groups were statistically significant for each subscale of BES (p < 0,01). In FRS, group A achieved lower score for the current silhouette as well as for an ideal silhouette. A statistically significant difference was observed in the current silhouette (p < .,001). Discussion: Physical activity influences the body image, but the specific result may depends on form of this activity. Conclusions: Women practicing yoga have greater body esteem, less discrepancy between the real and the ideal silhouette and perceive their current silhouette as better in comparison to women practicing other forms of fitness.