Symptoms associated with menopause are known to negatively affect quality of life for many women. Moreover, concern about risks associated with hormone replacement therapy can prompt women to seek non-pharmacological approaches to symptom management. Claims exist that yoga can be useful in the management of menopausal symptoms, possibly through modification of endocrine function. This study used a randomized controlled design to examine the effect of yoga on sedentary menopausal women with regard to menopausal symptoms, circulating hormones, musculoskeletal fitness, heart rate, blood pressure, and body mass index. Women participating in a traditional walking program served as the control group. Results indicate that both types of activity were beneficial for perimenopausal women, although the differences between yoga and walking for improvement in menopause symptoms were not statistically significant. The effects do not appear to be associated with hormonal changes. Musculoskeletal fitness in sedentary women improved with activity despite weight gain. / ix, 105 leaves ; 29 cm