I haven't, in the past, been much of a yoga enthusiast. I prefer full contact, full out team sports. The kind where you limp home and nurse your body back to health so you can punish it again the next day. Soccer and basketball have been my lifelong favorites - after rowing, of course!
But I can't play those sports any more - because of the injuries. Mainly my feet and knees are done. So I have been actively seeking other ways to extend my body to stay fit and strong. My daughter convinced me to try yoga.
I have quite a few friends who only practice yoga for fitness, so I was really interested when this article presented itself. What does the research show? Yoga doesn't make you stronger or fitter. There is some minor gain in leg strength, but that's it. That doesn't mean yoga isn't great for all kinds of other reasons - like flexibility and relaxation - but it simply isn't a fitness activity.
So, if you're in your chair, have a read on this research supported article. Then GET OUT OF YOUR CHAIR and do something for fitness. Muscle and cardiovascular health will take you well into old age.
Does Yoga Build Strength?