Randomized trial comparing effects of high-speed cued yoga and Hatha yoga on cognitive and neuromuscular performance in older adults

Routine physical activity, including yoga, is crucial for maintaining cognitive health and independence among older adults. This study compared the impacts of 24 weeks of a novel high-speed, cued yoga intervention (YogaCue) to those of traditional Hatha yoga (Hatha) on cognitive, aerobic, functional, and neuromuscular performance in 34 cognitively healthy older adults (17 YogaCue, 17 Hatha). Cognitive testing included the NIH Cognitive Toolbox, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test, and Trail-Making Tests.

Neuromuscular testing involved 1-repetition maximum and power testing for leg press and chest press. Additionally, participants completed the 6-Minute Walk Test, Physical Performance Test, and Timed Up & Go. Mixed ANOVAs were performed for all outcome measures.

Both groups improved in the NIH List Sorting Test (p = 0.023), Flanker Test (p = 0.042), and Fluid Composite Score (p