Tai Chi: ideal exercise for the elderly

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese system of health exercises originating from its roots as a martial art.

As a requirement for my Bachelor of Education degree in Physical Education and Personal and Social Development, I am working on a dissertation focusing on Tai Chi and its benefits for the elderly.

The participants, who are aged between 60 and 74, are attending a 10-week course twice a week after which appropriate tests will be held to measure the benefits they received from Tai Chi. These results will be compared to pre-test results.

The determination and willingness of my participants to learn should be an example to all Maltese elderly. They are diligently attending the course showing consistency and patience; qualities that are becoming scarce by the day.

Who said one is ever too old to learn? Think again. If only our elderly can make more active use of their time rather than doing sedentary activities such as watching TV or spending long hours sitting down in local squares talking!

Will we ever see, as one does daily in Chinese parks, elderly and young alike practising Tai Chi? Besides the obvious health benefits, Tai Chi creates a strong community feeling bridging people together.

Tai Chi is often referred to as the ultimate exercise: for the body it is an exercise with great health benefits, for the mind it is an exercise in concentration and focusing on the moment, and for the soul it is a system of meditation which calms the practitioner.

Tai Chi has been attracting a lot of attention from doctors and university research departments. A lot of research has already been published on the benefits Tai Chi has on total body conditioning, strengthening of joints, arthritis, blood pressure, muscular strength (in particular leg muscles), cardiovascular system and balance among others.

This group is a great learning opportunity for me. My participants are in many ways my teachers. I take this opportunity to heartily thank you all. And as you might have heard me say already: Remember the importance of daily practice. I wish you all good health.