Teaching Tai Chi for Fall Prevention

LAS VEGAS, N.M. - Nov. 21, 2016 - PRLog -- An ancient Chinese practice is now being used to help seniors avoid falls.

John E. Arnold is a practitioner and teacher of Tai Chi Chuan. The discipline, originally a martial art (tai chi chuan translates roughly as "supreme ultimate boxing) is more commonly practiced today as an exercise form.

The medical community is coming to realize that tai chi is particularly beneficial for the elderly. It is a low-impact discipline that stresses slow, graceful, fluid movements and balanced posture.

The New Mexico Department of Health recently chose 15 instructors throughout the state to train in an adaptation of tai chi they call "moving for better balance."  John Arnold was one of the 15, and he is teaching seniors at the Las Vegas Senior Center.

"This is going to be a really good program for seniors," Arnold said, "since one out of three seniors experience falls. It is especially good for those who are sedentary. "

The program differs from some forms of tai chi as it stresses stepping to restore one's balance.

Arnold quoted Einstein to illustrate. "Life is like a bicycle; To keep your balance, you must keep moving."

The bi-weekly classes are held at the Las Vegas Senior Center at 500 Sabino Street, on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30am.  Classes are open to those 60 and older. The fee is $5 a month.

www.lasvegasnm.gov