Chair yoga is an adapted form of traditional yoga made for easier use. It is becoming more popular among older adults and people with physical challenges. It was introduced in 1982 by instructor Lakshmi Voelker, who created it to help a student with arthritis who had trouble doing yoga on the floor. Since then, chair yoga has grown in use and is now practiced in wellness programs, senior centers, and even workplaces. Chair yoga is considered a safer and more accessible choice than regular yoga. Studies show that it helps improve balance, flexibility, and physical strength, especially in elderly people. A 2023 study in Healthcare found that women over 65 with knee osteoarthritis showed improvement after doing chair yoga regularly.

This type of yoga helps strengthen muscles and improve posture, and it reduces the risk of falling for people with conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis. Although the movements are gentle, they have a strong effect on the body. A 2012 study also showed that just 15 minutes of chair yoga reduced physical and mental stress. Chair yoga includes deep breathing and mindfulness techniques, helping with emotional health and clear thinking. It is open to people of all fitness levels. While most yoga participants have been women, more men and people from various backgrounds are now joining. Chair yoga is viewed as a good option for healthy aging.