Effects of Suspension Training Group Exercise on Psychological Metrics Among College Students

Stress and anxiety are known as homeostasis disruptors. Various modalities, including yoga, mindfulness practice, physical activity, and medication may decrease symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Suspension training exercise regimes have gained popularity, utilizing an individual’s body mass as resistance. We examined the effects of suspension training on psychological metrics in college students. Thirty-three individuals completed a Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale—21 items survey before and after participating in a 12-week intervention consisting of suspension training exercises for 50 min twice weekly. Fifty-three control group participants completed the survey at the beginning and end of the program with no intervention. A paired sample t test was used to determine pre- and postassessment differences, and analysis of variance was used to compare groups. Statistically significant reductions in stress and anxiety subscales and overall Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale were found in both groups. There was no significant reduction in depression.