Tai Chi can be incorporated into your daily exercise routine. The perfect type of exercise for people with arthritis is that in which improves muscular strength, improves fitness, and builds on flexibility. Tai Chi does all these things through a low impact exercise routine.
Tai Chi is a slow moving, low-impact, easy form of martial arts. It’s appropriate for anyone that can move freely. The art is composed of a series of slow and gentle movements, all easily modified for those with sore and stiff joints.
Tai Chi has also been shown to help with muscle strength, flexibility, and balance.
In 2013, researchers China reviewed 7 different studies on Tai Chi in reference to arthritis.
They performed a meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of Tai Chi exercise for pain, stiffness, and physical function. In conclusion, they stated that a 12-week course can be beneficial to arthritis sufferers when it comes to reducing pain, reducing stiffness of joints and muscles, and increasing their physical functionality.
When muscles are strong, they help to protect the joints, reducing pain. Flexibility keeps those joints loose and reduces stiffness. And an increase in balance can help to reduce the number of falls arthritis sufferers face. All of these things are results of a regular Tai Chi workout.
Tai Chi classes can be found both privately through martial arts institutions and through public programs.
Many senior facilities also offer Tai Chi several times a week. Even those bound to wheelchairs can find benefits from modified movements.