 Home | Recent News | Newton | Tai Chi 01 Jan 2008 Tai Chi improves strength and balanceThe New Year is here and along with it often come New Year’s resolutions. One resolution that should be on your list is to improve your strength and balance. As adults, we begin losing muscle mass starting in our forties if we do not engage in an exercise regimen to combat this part of the aging process. For seniors over the age of 65, one of the most common causes of serious injury is a fall. To help residents follow through on their resolution, the Presbyterian Manor in Newton offers a Tai Chi class twice a week in the library. “I’ve seen an improvement in both my strength and balance since joining the class a year ago,” said Clara Koehn. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art. It involves slow, gentle, and continuous movements that can help you develop better balance, stronger muscles, concentration, and psychological well-being. The benefits of Tai Chi include stronger knees and ankles, better balance and flexibility, improved walking, and more confidence in the ability to avoid falls. Improving your strength can contribute to helping you avoid one of the most common injuries for seniors. “Tai Chi has helped relieve the pain in my joints and improved my balance,” said Letha Wilson. “I’ve gained strength in my legs with the series of movements that we have to do. There really isn’t any part of my body, both joints and muscles, which Tai Chi hasn’t helped.”
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