When Yoga Raises, Not Reduces, Risk?

Iyengar yoga focuses on precision and alignment, but may not show as much benefit in improving balance as other physical activity.

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An Iyengar yoga program increased fall rates compared to seated relaxation yoga in participants aged 60 years and older.
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41% of participants in the Iyengar group reported falls, while 29% in the seated group reported falls.
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Participants with no history of falls and higher baseline physical activity had increased fall rates in the Iyengar group.
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Self-reported balance confidence was higher in the Iyengar group, along with increased planned physical activity.
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The study suggests further research is needed on yoga styles that incorporate dynamic balance for fall prevention.

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