Falls Prevention

Tai Chi for Falls Prevention

Tai Chi for falls prevention promotes strength and increased flexibility of the muscles and joints, as well as improved balance in clients who are at risk of falling. Its gentle flowing nature aids relaxation of the mind and body whilst improving agility, proprioception and kinaesthetic awareness. Tai Chi and falls prevention in older people Considerable research evidence has been accumulated since 1990 that practicing Tai Chi for falls prevention can ameliorate multiple characteristics in older adults that place them at increased risk of falling, including poor balance, loss of strength, limited flexibility, and fear of falling. However, relatively few studies have directly examined the influence of Tai Chi for falls prevention in this population. RESULTS: Nine randomized controlled trials utilizing Tai Chi (n = 6), or Tai Chi-inspired exercise (n = 3), were published between 1996 and July, 2007.

The studies varied considerably on study settings, participant characteristics, sample size, type of Tai Chi intervention, length of intervention and quality of the study design. Of the six studies that used Tai Chi forms, three showed significant improvement in fall-related outcomes. One study using Tai Chi-inspired exercise also had a significant fall-related outcome.
October 2007 - Exercise Science, Sports Medicine, Willamette University, USA One Day Introduction Course

This is a one day tai chi for falls prevention course is designed to give you a background to our work and develop an understanding in the use of this art as an enrichment/enhancement of your current knowledge.

Key Benefits

Improved balance awareness through Tai Chi skills
Improved personal awareness and relaxation
Introduction to full training program potential

Full Course Tai Chi for falls prevention is a 4 day course followed by 2 x 2 day follow ups (3-monthly) which allow chance to review and develop the skills further through the use of experience gained and case study review.

Key Benefits

Improved balance awareness through Tai Chi skills
Improved personal awareness and relaxation
Improved postural alignment, breathing and circulation
Learn to help yourself to increase your potential to help others