Tai chi involves slow, gentle movements, and is a low impact exercise suitable for seniors or those with chronic conditions such as arthritis. It is often known as an effective way to relax and alleviate pain. While it’s true that people often associate tai chi to the older generation, young adults who are recovering from injuries can practice tai chi too. Studies have shown that doing tai chi can strengthen muscles, and practicing tai chi regularly can improve our overall health and wellbeing. Learn about the many tai chi benefits for seniors now!
Tai Chi Improves Balance
People of all ages can benefit from practicing tai chi. However, tai chi is especially beneficial for older people as it has been proven to improve balance. Practicing tai chi helps to enhance your proprioception, which is how your body makes sense of its position in space. Our proprioceptive abilities decrease as we age, and this is why some older adults find it increasingly challenging to maintain their balance, causing them to be at risk for falls. Nearly one-third of the people who are over 65 years old fall every year, and some of these falls may cause serious injuries. By practicing tai chi, we can work on our proprioception and improve our balance.
Tai Chi Decreases Risk of High Blood Pressure
Tai chi can reduce blood pressure. This is especially important for many of us since we have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure compared to younger adults. High blood pressure can lead to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, which is why we must take steps to maintain a normal blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of Nursing Research reported that elders with high blood pressure who practiced tai chi for eight weeks saw their average blood pressure readings drop from 140/90 mmHg to 135/85 mmHg. Having a healthy blood pressure can also improve concentration and sleep patterns.
Tai Chi Improves Physical Strength
Practicing tai chi can help us gain physical strength. Studies have shown that tai chi can increase muscle strength, which means it can help us reduce the risk of falling and becoming injured. Along with physical strength, tai chi has also been shown to increase endurance, both of which will make it easier for us to move around and perform everyday tasks.
Tai Chi Improves Hand-Eye Coordination
Research shows that practicing tai chi regularly gives us better proprioceptive abilities, which not only improves our balance, but also our hand-eye coordination too.
Tai chi is a martial art, and many people practice it to enjoy its many health benefits. Many people who practice tai chi also say that it gives them a sense of freedom from their physical limitations. Tai chi is a low impact exercise that focuses on balance and coordination, which can then help improve muscle tone, stamina, and flexibility. If you or a loved one is looking for a low impact exercise that has multiple health benefits, practicing tai chi might be a great option to consider.
