"The slowness that you see from the outside is deceptive. As
an aerobic workout, Tai Chi is roughly the equivalent of a brisk walk
(depending on the intensity at which you perform it). And as a
resistance training routine, some studies have found it similar to more
vigorous forms of weight training," says Dr. Wayne, co-author of The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi.
Tai Chi and Balance
With its integrative approach that strengthens the body while
focusing the mind, Tai Chi addresses a range of physical and mental
health issues—including bone strength, joint stability, cardiovascular
health, immunity, and emotional well-being. Tai Chi is especially useful
for improving balance and preventing falls—a major concern for older
adults.
Studies have shown Tai Chi to reduce falls in seniors by up to 45%. It can also improve balance in people with neurological
problems. A recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine found the program particularly effective for balance in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Tai Chi helps improve balance because it targets all the physical
components needed to stay upright—leg strength, flexibility, range of
motion, and reflexes — all of which tend to decline with age.
Interestingly, one of Tai Chi’s biggest benefits to stability isn’t physical—but emotional.
Anyone who’s had a fall or who has instability has what we call a
‘fear of falling. Ironically, a fear of falling is
one of the biggest predictors of a fall. By making you firmer on your
feet, Tai Chi takes away that fear. Tai Chi also makes you more
aware of both your internal body and the external world, giving you a
better sense of your position in space, so you won’t be as likely to
trip and fall if you try to simultaneously talk to a friend and navigate
a busy sidewalk.
Getting started with Tai Chi
One of the best things about Tai Chi is its adaptability to every age
and fitness level. I have students in their late 80s. Because Tai Chi has “zero impact,” it doesn’t put
too much strain on aging bones and joints. But it’s not by any
means something that’s only for the elderly, and it can be quite
demanding for the young.
You can start Tai Chi at most levels of health, and you can ramp up
your activities to be appropriate to your level of fitness and
function.
Tai Chi is also incredibly safe—even for
people who are older and have chronic diseases.
I have been teaching Tai Chi in the Wiregrass since 2000. Interested, Curious ? Please come watch or participate in a FREE class. Call me at (334) 798 1639 or email me at frederic.lecut@gmail.com.
