Taken from the NHS choices information site, this gives a useful beginners guide to tai chi / tai ji despite reinforcing the common stereotype that it is for elderly people only.
Whilst I agree that anyone can benefit from it, certainly in the Li style, Lishi classes can work at differing paces and can stretch anyone be it an athlete, a physically imparired or an elderly person.
There are specialist Lishi classes for children and then from 16 years of age people can participate in the adult classes where there are many a time I have been guaranteed a good nights sleep!!! The important point to make is to know yourself and your own limits - if you're not sure, then going to a class would be the perfect place to begin the journey within to learn about yourself.
What is tai chi?
Tai chi, also called tai chi chuan, combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements.
What are the health benefits of tai chi?
While there's scope for more rigorous studies on tai chi's health benefits, studies have shown that tai chi can help people aged 65 and over to reduce stress, improve balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs.
Can tai chi help prevent having falls?
Some research suggests tai chi can reduce the risk of falls among older adults who are at increased risk. However, more research is needed.
Can tai chi help with arthritis?
There is some evidence that tai chi can improve mobility in the ankle, hip and knee in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RH). However, it is still not known if tai chi can reduce pain in people with RH or improve their quality of life.
Is tai chi good for treating osteoporosis?
Studies have looked into the potential benefits of tai chi for people with osteoporosis, but there is currently no convincing evidence that tai chi can prevent or treat osteoporosis.
Am I too old for tai chi?
No, tai chi is a low-impact form of exercise, which means it won’t put much pressure on your bones and joints and most people should be able to do it.
Is tai chi suitable for me?
Get advice from your GP before starting tai chi if you have any health concerns or an existing health condition. You may need to take certain precautions if you’re pregnant, have a hernia, back pain or severe osteoporosis.
Don't I need to be fit to do tai chi?
No, tai chi is ideal for inactive older people wanting to raise their activity levels gently and gradually. Also, many of the tai chi movements can even be adapted to people with a disability, including wheelchair users.
Can I injure myself doing tai chi?
Tai chi is essentially a gentle activity unlikely to cause injury if done correctly. The exercises involve lots of flowing, easy movements that don’t stress the joints or muscles.
Tips on getting started
It’s a good idea to watch a class or attend a free taster session before signing up for a course. If you have a medical condition, any health concerns or haven’t exercised for a long time, speak to your GP before you start tai chi.
Are there different styles of tai chi?
Yes, such as Li, yang, chen and wu. Some teachers often practise a combination of styles. The main differences between the different tai chi styles are in the speed of movement and the way the body holds the postures.
What’s the basic technique?
Tai chi is characterised by its slow, graceful, continuous movements that are gentle on the joints and muscles. Done correctly, you'll find that the tai chi poses flow smoothly from one into another. Many movements are completed with bent knees in a squat-like position.
Can I learn tai chi from a book or DVD?
It’s a good idea to learn the basics of tai chi from an instructor to ensure your style is correct, effective and won't cause injury. You can consider using a book or DVD once you’re familiar with the postures
To find a Lishi class near you visit http://www.lishi.org/classes
Whilst I agree that anyone can benefit from it, certainly in the Li style, Lishi classes can work at differing paces and can stretch anyone be it an athlete, a physically imparired or an elderly person.
There are specialist Lishi classes for children and then from 16 years of age people can participate in the adult classes where there are many a time I have been guaranteed a good nights sleep!!! The important point to make is to know yourself and your own limits - if you're not sure, then going to a class would be the perfect place to begin the journey within to learn about yourself.
What is tai chi?
Tai chi, also called tai chi chuan, combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements.
What are the health benefits of tai chi?
While there's scope for more rigorous studies on tai chi's health benefits, studies have shown that tai chi can help people aged 65 and over to reduce stress, improve balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs.
Can tai chi help prevent having falls?
Some research suggests tai chi can reduce the risk of falls among older adults who are at increased risk. However, more research is needed.
Can tai chi help with arthritis?
There is some evidence that tai chi can improve mobility in the ankle, hip and knee in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RH). However, it is still not known if tai chi can reduce pain in people with RH or improve their quality of life.
Is tai chi good for treating osteoporosis?
Studies have looked into the potential benefits of tai chi for people with osteoporosis, but there is currently no convincing evidence that tai chi can prevent or treat osteoporosis.
Am I too old for tai chi?
No, tai chi is a low-impact form of exercise, which means it won’t put much pressure on your bones and joints and most people should be able to do it.
Is tai chi suitable for me?
Get advice from your GP before starting tai chi if you have any health concerns or an existing health condition. You may need to take certain precautions if you’re pregnant, have a hernia, back pain or severe osteoporosis.
Don't I need to be fit to do tai chi?
No, tai chi is ideal for inactive older people wanting to raise their activity levels gently and gradually. Also, many of the tai chi movements can even be adapted to people with a disability, including wheelchair users.
Can I injure myself doing tai chi?
Tai chi is essentially a gentle activity unlikely to cause injury if done correctly. The exercises involve lots of flowing, easy movements that don’t stress the joints or muscles.
Tips on getting started
It’s a good idea to watch a class or attend a free taster session before signing up for a course. If you have a medical condition, any health concerns or haven’t exercised for a long time, speak to your GP before you start tai chi.
Are there different styles of tai chi?
Yes, such as Li, yang, chen and wu. Some teachers often practise a combination of styles. The main differences between the different tai chi styles are in the speed of movement and the way the body holds the postures.
What’s the basic technique?
Tai chi is characterised by its slow, graceful, continuous movements that are gentle on the joints and muscles. Done correctly, you'll find that the tai chi poses flow smoothly from one into another. Many movements are completed with bent knees in a squat-like position.
Can I learn tai chi from a book or DVD?
It’s a good idea to learn the basics of tai chi from an instructor to ensure your style is correct, effective and won't cause injury. You can consider using a book or DVD once you’re familiar with the postures
To find a Lishi class near you visit http://www.lishi.org/classes