What type of exercise is yoga primarily known to improve?

Yoga is primarily known to improve flexibility and balance. It incorporates a variety of poses and stretches that help to elongate the muscles and increase the range of motion in the joints, which directly contributes to enhanced flexibility. Additionally, many yoga poses require maintaining or shifting balance, actively engaging core and stabilizing muscles, thus improving one's overall balance.

While strength training is beneficial in many forms of yoga, the primary focus is on achieving a better stretch and alignment rather than lifting weights or engaging in high-resistance exercises. Speed and agility are not focal points of yoga practice, as the routines often emphasize controlled movements and deep breathing rather than quick or high-speed actions. Cardiovascular fitness, while it may be enhanced through more dynamic styles of yoga, is not the primary goal, as yoga is traditionally more about mindfulness, breathing techniques, and physical alignment rather than aerobic exercise. Therefore, the emphasis on flexibility and balance makes this answer the most appropriate choice.