Seniors Benefit from Tai Ji

Since it is both entertaining to practice and effective, the no-impact Chinese exercise Tai Ji is an excellent way to tone muscle, increase endurance, and gain balance. In a recent study in Annals of Behavioral Medicine, researchers concluded that the movements associated with Tai Ji helped seniors improve their physical functioning. Study participants who took Tai Ji twice a week for a six-month period noticed a significant improvement in their ability to accomplish daily tasks such as carrying groceries, walking up stairs, or moving medium-sized objects. It was concluded that the 6-month Tai Ji exercise program was effective for improving functional status in healthy, physically inactive older adults. Most notably, those who took Tai Ji were less likely to fall--one of the largest causes of serious injury for seniors.

Because it is a no-impact exercise, Tai Ji has three major components: movement, meditation, and deep breathing. All major muscle groups are utilized to articulate the gentle, slow movements of Tai Ji. Further, its movements improve strength, flexibility, coordination, and muscle tone. The exercise may help reduce slow bone loss, and prevent osteoporosis. The meditative aspect of Tai Ji soothes the mind, reduces anxiety, enhances concentration, and lowers blood pressure. The deep breathing releases tension, enhances blood circulation to the brain, and supplies the body with fresh oxygen. For older adults seeking an effective, no-impact exercise with a multitude of benefits, Tai Chi is an excellent choice to free the mind and energize the body.

Bonnie - I have been an ardent supporter of this exercise for years. This is a truly wonderful mind and body exercise choice for seniors.