 The
advent of low-impact exercise programs that appeal to elderly
persons and can be done almost anywhere can provide both societal
and individual benefits. The basis for one such program is Tai
Chi, a traditional Chinese dance-like conditioning exercise.
The 8-Form Tai Chi program (Easy Tai Chi), is specifically
designed for elderly persons or for individuals with mobility
challenges and/or physical impairments. All movements are
derived from a simplified 24-Form Yang style Tai Chi, stressing
postural control and body-limb rotational movements. The unique
feature of the Easy Tai Chi routine is that it can be performed
either standing or sitting depending on the physical and functional
limitations of participants.
Preliminary data indicate a number of health benefits of
Easy Tai Chi compared to a traditional exercise program. Although
subject to further empirical evaluation, Easy Tai Chi may
be applied in research settings to investigate prevention
or amelioration of hypokinetic diseases and in clinical settings
to treat physically frail seniors or others with functional
impairments of the musculoskeletal or cardiovascular systems.
The 8-Form Easy Tai Chi
1. Commencing form
2. Repulse Monkey (Right and Left)
3. Grasp Peacock's Tail (Ward off, Rollback, Press, Push)
(Left and Right)
4. Move hands like Clouds (Left)
5. Fair Lady Works at Shuttles (Left and Right)
6. Golden Cock Stands on one Leg (Right and Left)
7. Brush Knees and Twist Steps (Right and Left)
8. Closing Form
See pictures & video
of NIA Employees doing Easy Tai Chi.
If you want to learn Easy Tai Chi,
you may contact me at:
Danilo "Danny" Naoe
Cell# 09279437559
email:[email protected]
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