Safe, gentle movements which teach weight transfer and co-ordination.
This evidence based programme was developed by a tai chi expert and medical colleagues. It uses Sun Style Tai Chi for its ability to improve relaxation, balance, and its ease of use for older adults. The movements are taught to both left and right sides and with turns to move forward and backward to improve mobility and offer a variety of combinations.
Falls can be a problem at any age, but breaking a bone after a fall becomes more likely as we get older. Even without a fracture, a fall can make you more fearful of falling again, and this may limit how you live your life. But it is possible to reduce your risk of falling. The fitter you are, the less likely you are to fall. Regular physical activity, can improve your strength and balance, and reduce your risk of falling.
There’s a substantial body of evidence that taking part in regular tai chi sessions can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art. This gentle form of exercise involves slow and graceful, dance-like movements. It places particular emphasis on mindful stepping and body awareness. Unlike other martial arts, tai chi does not involve physical contact or rapid physical movements, making it an ideal activity for older people. It reduces the risk of falls by improving muscle strength and joint flexibility, resulting in better balance and enhanced co-ordination.
The sessions are led by a Tai Chi Instructor who is qualified in both traditional and adapted forms, and has a deep understanding of the art. The instructor is also a qualified Postural Stability Instructor. Postural Stability Instructors have specialsed training in strength and conditioning and are skilled at making safe adaptions for older adults and different health conditions.
