Yoga - benefits compared to many other forms of physical exercise;

compared to other weight-bearing exercise there is very little shock placed on joints and muscles so injuries resulting from impact are much less likely
physical movements such as stretches and inversions encourage healthy blood flow around the body without placing strain on the heart
breath control and regular periods of rest prevent build up of lactic acid and reduce fatigue and stiffness during and after exercise
yoga includes warming up and cooling off exercises so has a low likelihood of strains due to overuse of cold muscles
yoga practice can be modified to suit individual health issues
students are encouraged to 'listen' to their body and learn what is suitable for them rather than pushing themselves to keep up with others
yoga helps build core body strength, improving posture & helping protect the body from injury
yoga exercises the whole body rather than building strength in some areas at the expense of others