Using the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change to Explain Yoga Practice.

Background Diverse groups, including college students, are being encouraged to practice yoga. Research suggests that college students fail to attain the mental and physical benefits of yoga practice. Objetive The purpose of this study was to utilize the fourth-generation, multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change to explain change regarding yoga practice of asanas, shava asana, pranayama, dhyana, yama and niyama among college students. Method This cross-sectional study relied on a quota sample of students 18 years and older attending Jackson State University, a historically black college in Jackson, Mississippi, United States. Measures A 36-item face and content valid instrument was used to collect data. Stepwise multiple regression was used to analyze the survey data for identifying the best possible predictors of yoga practice. A statistical significance level of 0.05 was set a priori. Results A total of 70 participants, mean age 28.62 years (SD, 6.11), predominately female (84%) and black (87%) completed the survey. The initiation model constructs- changes in the physical environment (β = 3.99, P = .002) and behavioral confidence (β = 0.331, P = .008)-were significant, explaining 40% of the variability in the dependent variable. Practice change was statistically significant (F1,65 =7.569; P = .0001; adjusted R2 = 0.460) for the maintenance model, explaining 46% of the variability. Conclusion The MTM model of health behavior change is effective for explaining the intent to initiate and maintain yoga behavior among college students.