YMCA Tai Chi Classes Improve Overall Health

by Lauren Lepchenske

With winter fast approaching, slips and falls are a major concern, particularly among the older population.  When someone has been injured due to a fall, daily tasks such as grocery shopping and making doctors’ appointments become difficult if not impossible. Many people are aware
that physical activity in general will reduce the likelihood of falls. Balance and flexibility are the two areas of fitness to focus on when fall reduction is a goal. Yoga and Pilates are popular forms of exercise that emphasize these areas of fitness.

Tai Chi is a less commonly known eastern form of martial arts that also aids in the development of balance and flexibility. While Tai Chi was developed for use among all ages, because of its safe qualities, it makes it a popular choice for older active adults.  It is a low impact form of exercise that puts very little stress on muscles and joints.

Tai Chi combines slow and controlled movement patterns with rhythmic breathing. The slow movements aid in developing balance while the continuous movement patterns help to increase range of motion in the joints. Both of these can aid in fall prevention.  Tai Chi is also done in a vertical position which is beneficial because this is how many activities of daily life are performed.  Tai Chi has been shown to improve energy and stamina, increase muscle strength and definition, and improve flexibility and balance.  It also has been shown to improve cognition and reduce stress.   Not only is Tai Chi good for the body, it is a holistic exercise that is also good for improved mental function.

According to a Harvard Medical School health publication article, The Benefits of Tai Chi (May 2009), Tai Chi is also great for those who suffer from arthritis. In a study done by Tufts University in 2008, “an hour of Tai Chi twice a week for 12 weeks reduced pain and improved mood and
physical functioning more than standard stretching exercises in people with severe knee osteoarthritis.”  Studies have also indicated an increase in overall health in those patients with heart disease, hypertension and sleep problems.

Tai Chi classes, such as those at the YMCA, are taught by trained and certified instructors in a small group environment.  Both beginning and regular Tai Chi classes are available.  For more information on YMCA Tai Chi classes, contact the St. Charles County Family YMCA at 636-928-1928 or go to the website:  www.ymcastlouis.org/st-charles.

Lauren Lepchenske, the Aquatics Coordinator for the St. Charles County Family YMCA, has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in exercise science from Eastern
Illinois University.