Exercise that targets balance and strength is proven to prevent falls in older age. The Successful AGEing yoga trial is the first large randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of yoga on falls in people aged ≥60 years. We conducted a realist process evaluation to explain the strong participant engagement observed using interviews (21 participants and three yoga instructors) and focus groups (12 participants and four yoga instructors). Results showed that relaxation, breathing, and yoga’s mind–body connection created a satisfying internal focus on bodily sensation which was valued by participants. The mechanisms of mindfulness and embodiment appeared to facilitate this. Mindfulness and embodiment are also linked to, and enhance engagement with, other forms of physical activity. By focusing creatively on these mechanisms, we can develop a range of programs that target improvements in physical and mental health (including reducing falls and fear of falls) and appeal to older people.

事实证明，以平衡和力量为目标的锻炼可以防止老年人跌倒。Successful aging yoga 试验是第一个评估瑜伽对 60 岁及以上人群跌倒影响的大型随机对照试验。我们进行了现实主义过程评估，以解释通过访谈（21 名参与者和 3 名瑜伽教练）和焦点小组（12 名参与者和 4 名瑜伽教练）观察到的参与者强烈参与。结果表明，放松、呼吸和瑜伽的身心联系创造了令人满意的对身体感觉的内在关注，这被参与者所重视。正念和具身化的机制似乎促进了这一点。正念和具身化也与其他形式的身体活动相关联，并增强了对其他形式身体活动的参与。通过创造性地关注这些机制，