Effects of Callanetics Exercises on Mental Health Among Occupational Women in the Federal Capital Territory

Authors

  • Oluwasogo Ruth Ogunleye National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja
  • Bala Kwata Waziri National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63561/jhssr.v2i3.845

Keywords:

Depression, Anxiety, Low-impact Exercise, Exercise Intervention and Stress

Abstract

The mental health of occupational women has become a critical concern, particularly in urban settings like the Federal Capital Territory, where work-related stress and societal expectations contribute to anxiety and depression. This study examines the effects of Callanetics exercises on the mental well-being of occupational women. A quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test control group was employed, involving 100 participants divided into an experimental group and a control group. Mental health outcomes were assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale and the Beck Depression Inventory-II. The results indicate a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms (F(1,97) = 37.31, p < .05, η² = 0.28), suggesting that callanetics accounted for 28% of the observed variance in anxiety symptoms. Similarly, depression symptoms significantly decreased in the experimental group (F(1,97) = 12.16, p < .05, η² = 0.11), confirming the positive impact of callanetics on emotional well-being. Also, the interaction effect between treatment and age was statistically significant, F(4, 89) = 2.65, p = .04, η² = .10, which suggests that the effect of treatments differs across age categories. These findings support the integration of callanetics exercises into mental health interventions for occupational women, particularly in high-stress environments. Given its accessibility, minimal equipment requirements, and focus on mindfulness, Callanetics presents a non-pharmacological approach to improving psychological well-being. The study highlights the need for workplace and community-based exercise programmes to enhance mental health outcomes among working women. Future research should explore long-term adherence and potential adaptations for different populations.

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Published

2025-05-30

How to Cite

Ogunleye, O. R., & Waziri, B. K. (2025). Effects of Callanetics Exercises on Mental Health Among Occupational Women in the Federal Capital Territory. Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences Journal of Health, Sports Science and Recreation, 2(3), 33–42. https://doi.org/10.63561/jhssr.v2i3.845

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