Tai Chi

 Age Concern Otago's Tai Chi exercise classes are a peer-led intuitive designed to help older people / kaumātua  improve their physical condition. Tai Chi is shown by scientific studies to improve;

• Balance

• Muscle strength

• Flexibilty

• General fitness

• Spatial awareness

• Relaxation

• Immunity

• Wellbeing

Tai Chi is also beneficial for back pain, arthritis, diabetes, breathing and stamina, has shown to help prevent falls and improve health and the quality of life. Additionally, it may prevent and /or improve the management of medical conditions such as arthritis and particularly for our ageing population.
Tai Chi movements emphasise the importance of weight transference to develop balance, decrease the risk of falls and reducing the fear of falling.

Age Concern Otago's Tai Chi programme uses Dr Paul Lam’s modified Tai Chi which is based on Sun Style Tai Chi.  Tai Chi is a gentle challenge as participants are on their feet for the hour and more coordination and memory is involved than Steady As You Go©.  There are 18 classes in Dunedin and 8 in rural Otago.  Classes are for one hour once per week.