Benefits of Yoga for Older Adults
There are multiple benefits from yoga practice for older adults.
Yoga for older adults in their 60s and 70s may have a significant positive effect on fitness after 9–12 weeks of practice, according to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2021; 18 [21], 11663).
Researchers from University of Ulsan in Korea conducted the meta-analysis based on 12 studies and a total of 291 subjects. Data analysis showed improvements in strength, balance, mobility and lower-body flexibility. No significant improvements occurred with cardiorespiratory endurance or upper-body flexibility.
See also: Research-Based Yoga for Seniors
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
