Fall Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation Center

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Tai Chi

Tai Chi

Tai Chi originated as a type of martial art very well known for its defense techniques and health benefits. There are many forms of Tai Chi. Our clinic offers Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention. This type of exercise has evolved over the years into a gentle, aerobic, meditative-type exercise that improves overall physical health as well as alleviate stress and anxiety; in fact, it has been considered to be a form of 'meditation in motion' which promotes serenity and inner peace.

The goal of the FIPAR Tai Chi Program is to maintain and improve muscle strength, balance, gait, and mobility in older persons through the proven and effective Tai Chi exercises.

Tai Chi for Arthritis Fall Prevention Program

Tai Chi for Arthritis is a safe and effective exercise program for persons with or without arthritis designed by Dr. Paul Lam and a group of medical and Tai Chi experts. It has gained worldwide acceptance by Arthritis Foundations and Societies. Certified instructors must have attended a workshop, meet established qualifications and fulfill the requirements, which may include passing a written test and/or demonstration of Tai Chi. Instructors must be recertified every two years and be certified in first aid, CPR or equivalent qualifications.

Participants will learn three (3) specific Tai Chi principles during the program to include movement control, weight transference, and integration of mind and body. The Tai Chi for Arthritis program has two levels of participation to include the Entry Level Tai Chi and Advanced Level Tai Chi.

Entry Level Tai Chi

Participants enrolled in this level of Tai Chi will learn six (6) basic movements or forms to include Commencement, Open and Close, Single Whip, Wave Hands in the Cloud, Open and Close, and Closing.

Advanced Level Tai Chi

After participation in two consecutive 6-week entry level programs, the participant will be evaluated for ability to enter the advanced Tai Chi program. In addition to principles learned in the entry level Tai Chi, participants will also learn advanced movements to include Brush Knee, Play the Lute, Parry and Punch, Block and Close, Push the Mountain, Open and Close, and Closing.