Often, people make the mistake of thinking of martial arts as activities only for the young. While people of all ages can practice and enjoy Karate, Ju Jutsu, and more, Tai Chi is a physical activity that is particularly well-suited to seniors. If you’re wondering how to get in shape, read on:
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is an internal Chinese martial art that dates back almost 1,000 years. Originally used for defense training, Tai Chi combines movement with spiritual and mental benefits. Tai Chi is practiced by many seniors who view it as a relaxing form of low-impact exercise. The slow, flowing postures of Tai Chi are very calming.
How Do You Practice Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a physical activity that does not need any equipment, just your own body. You can practice Tai Chi in a park with other people or in a group class at a martial arts facility. There are five orthodox styles of Tai Chi, although many variations and offshoots have been developed over the centuries. An instructor at a martial arts facility can teach you the positions and movement, teach you how to regulate your breathing, and offer customization to suit your particular needs (such as disability).
How does Tai Chi help the body?
Tai Chi can improve your strength, flexibility, balance, agility, and coordination. It can improve your endurance, benefit stamina, and increase your aerobic capacity. Simply put, Tai Chi has many of the positive benefits of more strenuous exercise options with less risk of injury or strain. If you’re interested in how to get in shape, you’ll see that Tai Chi is a great option.
What are Related Health Benefits?
Aside from the physical improvements associated with regular Tai Chi physical activity, you may experience many related health benefits. This includes improved quality of sleep, better immune system, and lowered blood pressure and cholesterol. Muscle pain, joint pain, and arthritis pain can be reduced through Tai Chi. Bone loss may be slowed in menopausal women, and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s are benefited by practicing Tai Chi.
Are there any Mental Benefits?
Tai Chi is very beneficial both mentally and spiritually. Many seniors who practice Tai Chi find the movements to be soothing, calming, and peaceful. Similar to meditation, Tai Chi seems to improve focus and reduce stress and anxiety.
Tai Chi is a fantastic option for seniors or to stay physically and mentally healthy. Your overall well-being will be markedly improved with just 20 minutes of calming and peaceful moderate exercise. If you want to know how to get in shape, Tai Chi may be the answer.