DETROIT (WWJ) – Yoga is not an activity that many adults would expect young children to embrace.

But WWJ’s Pat Sweeting tells us that’s apparently changing as third graders at MacDowell Elementary in Detroit embrace the challenge of yoga.

Under the guidance of Danialle Karmanos and a 10 week ‘Work It Out’ program helps kids strengthen both body and mind.

“They come every week and we have the same volunteers and we make sure they have a very safe stable environment,” said Karmanos.

Dr. Richard Reynolds a surgeon and chief at Children’s Hospital says that kids are experiencing some of the same physical pain as adults.

“So, what we want to do is some activities that promote strength, flexibility has ease of access, and at the end of the day is fun,” said Dr. Reynolds.

Dr. Reynolds says that back pain in kids is almost equal to that in adults. Dr. Reynolds blames childhood obesity and lack of exercise and activity.

Dr. Reynolds says yoga meets those requirements.

The program is partnered with the DMC Children’s Hospital of Michigan.