NCT07638267 · Caitlin Cheruka
Does Style Matter: Comparison of Moderate- to Low-intensity Styles of Yoga
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if yoga works to improve sleep and heart health in adults with and without insomnia disorder.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if yoga works to improve sleep and heart health in adults with and without insomnia disorder. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does the style of yoga impact participants heart health overnight? * Does the style of yoga improve participants sleep following a single session? Researchers will compare adults with insomnia disorder to adults with healthy sleep .
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Vinyasa yoga
Participants will follow a pre-recorded standardized sequence that includes a person demonstrating each sequence and provides verbal cues for the vinyasa yoga session. The 60-minute vinyasa yoga protocol incorporated standing, seated, and supine postures and included the following order of sequences: integration, sun salutations, crescent lunge series, balancing, standing, back bending, and restorative series.
BEHAVIORAL
Gentle yoga
Participants will follow a pre-recorded standardized sequence that includes a person demonstrating each sequence and provides verbal cues for the gentle yoga session. This sequence focuses primarily on seated and supine postures and is designed to be accessible, safe, and restorative. All poses are low-impact and supported using yoga blocks to promote comfort and reduce physical strain.
OTHER
Non-active control
The non-active control session, participants will complete a quiet rest period while watching a nature documentary. The film is educational in nature and has been carefully selected to avoid any graphic, distressing, offensive, or psychologically sensitive content. It is commercially available and rated G for general audiences. Participants will be asked to remain seated and refrain from the use of electronic devices. A staff member will remain present to ensure participants following procedures.
Primary outcome measures
Change in nocturnal root mean square of successive difference between normal heartbeats (RMSSD) heart rate variability (HRV)
Time frame: Overnight immediately after each experimental sessions (vinyasa yoga, gentle yoga, non-active control) for a total of 3 separate nights.
Nocturnal root mean square of successive difference between normal heartbeats will be assessed immediately after each experimental session for 1 night; a higher value indicates better cardiovascular health
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults 18-40 years
- Insufficiently inactive define by the L-CAT (responses below public health physical activity guidelines)
- Physical activity is not contraindicated (i.e., no affirmative responses on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire for Everyone (PAR-Q+)
- Adults with diagnosed insomnia disorder and score ≥ 10 on the Insomnia Severity Index
- Good sleeps a score \< 10 (no history of sleep disorder)
- Basic understanding of yoga poses
- Access to a smart device (such as a smartphone or tablet)
Exclusion criteria
- Regular yoga practice (\> 60 minutes per week)
- Any diagnosed medical condition requiring medical clearance determined 'Yes' response on questions pertaining to a present medical condition(s) via PAR-Q+. This includes, but is not limited to, uncontrolled cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological, or mental health conditions; recent stroke or concussion; active cancer treatment; and any combination of medical conditions that pose a health risk without physician supervision. All "yes" responses on the PAR-Q+ will be evaluated, and individuals requiring clearance will not be eligible to participate.
- Physical limitations and/or mobility restrictions (such as bone, joint, or soft tissue such as muscle, ligament, or tendon that could be made worse by becoming more physically active) via PAR-Q+
- Untreated major psychiatric disorders (e.g. major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia)
- Elevated risk for sleep apnea (i.e., STOP-Bang score ≥ 5)
- Any other sleep disorders other than insomnia (e.g., sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, circadian rhythm disorder, etc.)
- Current treatment for insomnia (e.g., hypnotic medications, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, etc.)
- Current medications that affect heart or blood pressure (i.e., anti-depressants, beta-blockers, etc.)
- Current or planned pregnancy within the next 3 months
- Overnight shift work defined as regularly working anytime between 00:00 and 6:00am
Where
- Orlando, Florida
Collaborators
American College of Sports Medicine
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations