Efficacy of yoga in facilitating mindfulness among asymptomatic male cricket players

Abstract

Background: Cricket scenario across the globe has undergone tremendous changes in the last two decades. Premier league designs have exposed the players to immense aggression, competitiveness, and expectations. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of yoga in facilitating mindfulness among asymptomatic male cricket players. Methods and materials: First-class domestic male cricket players in the age group of 18-35 years from the Karnataka State Cricket Association were randomized into yoga group n=40 and wait-list control group n=42. Players received the yoga module for five days/week for a duration of six weeks. Five-facet mindfulness questionnaire was given at baseline, immediate post-intervention, and a follow-up after six months of intervention. Statistical analysis: Group differences in the change in parameters over time was modelled using linear mixed-effects regression method using the lme4 package in R, as two groups were compared over three unevenly spaced assessment time points. Findings: Comparison of the model fit indicates a significant (p<0.001) difference between the model as compared to the baseline model among all the five facets. There was no significant effect (p>0.001) at either time or group, however, there was a significant interaction effect at T2 (immediate post-intervention) among all the facets. No significant interaction effect (group*time interaction) was found in the follow-up study. Application: Regular practice of this yoga module may enhance the likelihood to maintain a state of mindfulness among the male cricket players. Integrating yoga into the competitive world of cricket appears to be promising in enhancing mindfulness. Keywords: Sports performance; mindfulness; Yoga; cricket players; wellbeing