Yoga as a tool for stress management among university athletes
Shashi Kanaujia, Anirudh Srivastava
International Journal of Physiology Exercise and Physical Education August 1, 2026 DOI: 10.33545/26647249.2026.v8.i8a.293 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 60 |
| Population | University athletes |
| Intervention | Yoga |
| Duration | 8-week intervention |
| Measures | Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) |
| Key findings | The yoga group showed a significant reduction in perceived stress compared to the control group, indicating that an eight-week yoga program may be an effective strategy for reducing stress among university athletes. |
Abstract
University athletes face multiple stressors, including academic demands, competitive pressure, training load, performance expectations, and social responsibilities. Chronic stress can negatively affect athletic performance, psychological well-being, recovery, and academic achievement. Yoga, an ancient mind-body practice incorporating physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, has gained attention as a non-pharmacological intervention for stress management. The present study examines the effectiveness of a structured yoga program in reducing perceived stress among university athletes. Sixty university athletes were divided into an experimental group (Yoga Group) and a control group. The intervention consisted of an eight-week yoga program conducted three times per week. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Results indicated a significant reduction in stress among participants who practiced yoga compared to the control group. The findings suggest that yoga may be an effective strategy for enhancing psychological well-being and stress resilience among university athletes.