The martial art of Tai Chi is well-suited to seniors as it is a slow and gentle Chinese martial art. It is a great low impact exercise that develops stronger muscles and increases concentration and balance. By proper exercise older people can regain functionality, both mental and physical, that may have waned in recent years. It will also help ward off illness like osteoporosis.
In a study comparing people who did Tai Chi and those that didn’t, improvements were seen in those completing the exercises after just three months of participation. After six months, significant health benefits could be noticed. This proves that the longer one participates in Tai Chi, the more health benefits there are to be acquired. This is very good news that results can be seen even after a short time.
Once Tai Chi is an established part of a senior’s life, they have the added ability to undertake more vigorous exercise. Tai Chi also has a much lower drop out rate compared with regular exercise programs which many seniors find too intensive and unenjoyable. Tai Chi is becoming a more attractive form of fitness for aging people. Not only are there physical benefits, but people noted a great increase in mental energy whilst feeling more relaxed and at ease with life in general.
Another study involved senior citizens who were prone to falling. Half the group performed Tai Chi three times per week for 12 weeks whilst the other half did not exercise. The Tai Chi group proved increased physical fitness after a short time particularly in the ankle and knees. Flexibility was also improved as was balance which is important to prevent falling. The Tai Chi group could even walk faster after the Tai Chi program ended.
Compared with the 50% fall rate of the group who did no fitness, the Tai Chi group experienced a 31% fall rate. This proves that exercise like Tai Chi can provide many health and mental benefits for seniors. It can help older people avoid falls as it helps develop balance and strength muscles as well as improve flexibility. It can also, as mentioned, assist in avoiding bone fractures that result from weak, brittle bones.
This low impact exercise is enjoyable and only moderately strenuous so is likely to be something that seniors can keep up on a regular basis without feeling fatigued or overloaded. Of course, Tai Chi is a good exercise to start at any age. If you are still a few years from retirement, you may find that Tai Chi or yoga would be great exercises to start doing.
