Even the gentle movements of yoga can be a challenge when arthritis reduces mobility, but Marsha Hartley’s weekly class helps senior citizens improve balance and flexibility.

Hartley, the owner of Studio 105 at Rochester’s Plumb Corner, has incorporated training from the Arthritis Foundation with her own yoga moves that she says produce results.

“It doesn’t take away arthritis,” she said. “It alleviates the symptoms a little bit.”

The class is held at the Rochester Senior Center. Before it begins, students lay down a yoga mat and position a chair in the middle of it. Hartley begins by leading the group in simple seated exercises. They later stand up, using the chair for balance.

“I try to touch all the joints, especially our fingers and our toes,” said Hartley.

She said the movements in the chair yoga class are less complicated than traditional yoga.

“I make it simpler without a lot of cues. It’s much easier for people to follow,” Hartley explained.

The class has been meeting weekly for just under a year and ranges from eight to 16 seniors.

Originally, however, the busy business owner said she only planned to fill in at the center until another teacher could be found. Now she has no plans of leaving.

“I just fell in the love with all these people here, and my group grew and grew and grew,” she said.

Acushnet resident June White began coming to the class after her sister-in-law invited her several months ago.

“I’ve enjoyed it, so I stayed,” said White.

She said the exercises have proven helpful in relieving arthritis pain.

“It helps limber you up a little bit,” White said. “It’s not strenuous. You don’t go home sore, but you feel a little bit rejuvenized.”

Plus, it’s another way to socialize.

“It’s fun to see the girls. It gets you out of the house,” she said.

The class meets at the Rochester Senior Center, 67 Dexter Lane, on Mondays at 1 p.m. A $3 donation is requested for the center. For more information, call 508-763-8723 or visit www.rochestermaseniorcenter.com.