What Is Silversneakers Yoga?

SilverSneakers Yoga Stretch is a program of seated and standing yoga poses designed for older people. The poses help with balance, strength and flexibility, while the breathing exercises relieve stress and provide more energy, according to SilverSneakers.com. Contrary to other styles of yoga, floor mat exercises are not used in SilverSneakers Yoga Stretch.

Roots of the Program

Yoga Stretch is one of the SilverSneakers workout routines created and managed by Healthways Fitness Company, which trains and certifies instructors for its programs. SilverSneakers workouts include Cardio Fit, Cardio Circuit, Range of Movement, Yoga Stretch and Silver Splash. All Silver Sneakers instructors are accredited by the American Council on Exercise.

Safety and Ease

People of all abilities can safely practice yoga at a level that meets their needs. Even those who are severely overweight or who use a wheelchair can benefit from yoga, according to MayoClinic.com. SilverSneakers groups provide chair support to safely perform yoga postures. Some participants remain seated for most of the session, while others practice more poses from a standing position, based on their ability to balance.

Breathing for Energy

Every SilverSneakers Yoga Stretch class includes breathing to increase energy and reduce anxiety. Slow, restorative breathing flushes out the body's stored toxins, says SilverSneakers Yoga Stretch instructor Mary Louise King. Practicing yoga might reduce depression and insomnia by eliminating fatigue and improving one's mood, according to MayoClinic.com.

Healthy Aging with Yoga

The increased joint flexibility and overall muscular strength gained through SilverSneakers Yoga Stretch are especially helpful for older adults. Regular yoga practice helps prevent falls and fractures, writes yoga instructor Suza Francina, author of "The New Yoga for Healthy Aging." Yoga wards off arthritis and osteoporosis while increasing lung capacity and blood circulation, Francina says.

Precautions

Stretch slowly and avoid straining in the poses, advises the SilverSneakers website. Those with severe osteoporosis, glaucoma, balance problems or uncontrollable high blood pressure need to be especially cautious with yoga, advises MayoClinic.com. Get your doctor's OK before beginning any new exercise program.