Get your boomer body healthy

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Studies show exercise keeps the body healthy. People of all ages can benefit from stretching and sweating it out. And it's never too late to start.

People, up to their mid 90's, are striking up a yoga pose at the Atwater Senior Center in New Haven. Instructor Kathi Casey says there all kinds of benefits from these fluid forms.

According to " Healthy Boomer Body " and wellness coach Kathi Casey seniors really need to keep their flexibility. If they don’t, their bodies become stiff and inflexible "and all that is avoided if they do some simple yoga exercise."

For example, her class “Stop Back Pain Now” focuses on the lower back, legs and hips. It's designed to ease the pain from health issues like sciatica.

"Sciatica is actually caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. And generally, especially for the elder population, that’s because of tight muscles,” Kathi explained. “So if you stretch those muscles and breathe deeply and get them nice and flexible and healthy again, your sciatica will go away and won't come back as long as you keep those muscles in good shape."

The movements are modified to help those sitting on a chair.

"This is really good for helping to prevent osteoporosis, osteoarthritis,” Kathi added.

And by doing one or two of the exercises at home on a regular basis, you can stay flexible as you age.

“I feel a little better. My back, I have a little pain in my back once in awhile, but this exercise I think it helps me,” 81-year-old Gus Cuomo commented. “And I think it will help a lot of my other seniors.”

Connie Parris, another participant, is almost 80. "I think it’s very nice, especially because I have osteoporosis. This type of exercise is good for me.”

You can check with your local senior center for a similar program. Also, it is advisable that you consult with your doctor if you decide to start a new workout.