Tai Chi for Arthritis was developed by family
physician, Dr. Paul Lam, in Sydney Australia.
Utilizing Sun style tai chi, it is specifically
designed for people with arthritis. This form
has been adapted by the Arthritis Foundation
of the United States as the official form, Tai
Chi from the Arthritis Foundation, that is taught
by their instructors throughout the country.
Similarly, it is the official tai chi form used
by the Arthritis Foundation of Australia. For
current certified instructors, go to www.tchi.org
(Tai Chi for Health Institute).
Benefits of Tai Chi for Arthritis:
- Improves flexibility.
- Decreases pain in joints.
- Improves posture.
- Improves balance.
- Improves mood.
- Improves strength.
- Reduces stress.
- Improves stamina.
Why Sun Style:
- Agile steps with a follow step to promote
balance.
- Higher stance than other forms of tai chi.
This is easier for older people and those
with arthritis.
- Many Qigong movements which improve energy.
- Has great depth of art that holds practitioners'
interest.
Tai Chi for Arthritis Part 1 consists of 12
movements. When Part 1 is mastered, students
are encouraged to take Part 2 that includes
the movements of Part 1 to the opposite side
and adds 9 new movements. Each of these Parts
can be learned in a weekend workshop and polished
over a lifetime.
Additional Readings
- To read more about Tai Chi for Arthritis
and Dr. Lam, please see his website, www.taichiproductions.com.
- From CNN: Tai Chi may aid in arthritis
treatment — Tuesday, March
16, 2004
"When it comes to working out, no exercise
regimen is 'one size fits all,' but one particular
martial art form comes pretty close. According
to a review article in the Archives of Internal
Medicine, the ancient martial art of Tai Chi
not only improves strength, balance and flexibility
in older people, but it also has positive
effects on chronic health conditions like
multiple sclerosis and joint problems"
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