Tai Chi is recommended by many health professionals for its ability to increase balance, flexibility, coordination and even stress management. Unfortunately, finding the right program for older adults is not always easy as some forms of tai chi are just not suitable for those of us with arthritis or other medical conditions that may put us at a higher risk for falls.
The Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention program is a great way for adults and seniors to learn tai chi and enjoy its many benefits. It was developed by Dr. Paul Lam, an Australian physician and tai chi master, specifically to provide a safe and easy entry into tai chi for those of us with and without the challenges of arthritis. Ruth V., who has been taking Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention classes for almost 2 years now, says "It's amazing how much this class has helped me. In the beginning, I had a lot of knee pain and wasn't able to stand for the entire class session. Practicing tai chi has really helped with the pain, increased the strength in my legs and greatly improved my balance.”
Often described as “meditation in motion,” the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention program consists of slow, continuous movements with a focus on body awareness, balance, posture, weight shifting, and quieting our busy minds. This program uses the Sun Style of tai chi - a beautiful, flowing form that is especially well-suited for beginning older adults and seniors. While the slow, low-impact movements appear gentle and graceful, they actually contain a surprising internal power. Dr. Lam describes it as being like a calm, flowing river that has the power and strength to reshape the earth.
Each class consists of warm up and cool down exercises, a review of previously learned moves, and the learning of one or two new moves in a positive and supportive learning environment. Over the course of the six-week program, participants will begin to build the balance and strength that is so important in stabilizing and protecting arthritic joints, improving posture, and preventing falls.
New Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention classes are forming now in Elk Grove Village and Medinah, IL. Registration is required and class sizes are limited, so register early on the "Beginning Classes" page!