Yoga - activity for all ages and abilities

Yoga has always been a popular form of exercise with its well known benefits for both the body and mind, but has recently been thrust into the limelight by a glut of celebrities giving the activity credit for their toned and youthful bodies.

Whilst you might not feel like undertaking an activity such as yoga, prefering to take it easy and rest more, it's actually a great way to maintain mobility and physical strength. Keeping up and about on your feet can avoid muscle shortening and weakness, reduce the chance of developing osteoporosis and maintain flexibility. Yoga in particular is great to help maintain a good sense of balance, essential as you get older and more prone to falls.

Yoga classes can be adapted for all ages and abilities so don't worry, you won't need to be able to touch your ears with your toes to join a class - you never know though, you may be able to after a few months!

Yoga classes for seniors are popping up throughout the country so you should be able to find one near by. Alternatively, there are several dvds and videos available if you'd prefer to try it in the comfort of your own home. If you've never attempted something like this before, or suffer from painful joints you would be advised to check with a doctor before trying it out. If there are particular actions you find difficult, or you are uncertain as to what you will and will not be able to do, have a chat with the instructor before a class; it may be that they can suggest a suitable alternative, or you can just opt out of certain moves.

For more information about taking up yoga, the best place to start is the British Wheel of Yoga, the governing body for yoga in Great Britain. They are a font of knowledge on everything yoga related, including listings of courses available in your area. To have a look at the British Wheel of Yoga website visit www.bwy.org.uk, alternatively they can be contacted on 01529 306851 or by emailing office@bwy.org.uk.

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