Who should practice yoga?

Yoga is a timeless practice suitable for everyone, regardless of age.

Children can start practicing asanas (physical postures) from the age of 5 and pranayama (breath control) from the age of 8, as their lung development completes (the number and size of alveoli increase until the mature lungs form at around 8 years of age).

From this point until the last breath, yoga can be a part of one's life (with few exceptions under special conditions like surgery etc..).

In the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Swatmarama emphasizes that anyone can practice yoga.
The scripture specifically states:

युवो वृद्धोऽतिवृद्धो वा व्याधितो दुर्बलोऽपि वा।
अभ्यासात्सिद्धिमाप्नोति सर्वयोगेष्वतन्द्रितः॥ १.६७॥

yuvo vṝddho|ativṝddho vā vyādhito durbalo|api vā |
abhyāsātsiddhimāpnoti sarva-yogheṣhvatandritaḥ || 1.67 ||

Translation:
"Whether young, old, very old, sick, or weak, one who is diligent and not lazy will attain success in all forms of yoga through practice."

Conclusion

The essence of yoga is accessible to all. Regardless of age or physical condition, consistent practice without laziness can lead to success in yoga. The wisdom of Hatha Yoga Pradipika highlights that determination and regular practice are key to achieving the benefits of yoga.