Tai Chi
The Statewide Partnership
In partnership with the Tennessee Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, the University of Tennessee Extension is offering Tai Chi to Tennessee residents.
Overall Tai Chi Program Goal
To increase the quality of life of persons affected by arthritis through physical activity.
About the Tai Chi Program The Objectives of the Program
- To provide a safe and interesting program, which is easy to learn for people of almost any physical condition or age without prior knowledge of Tai Chi.
- To deliver maximum relief from the main problems experienced by people with arthritis - namely pain and stiffness.
- To benefit health in general.
- To improve relaxation.
Type of Tai Chi Used in This Program
Tai Chi encompasses a wide range of styles and forms, each with their own characteristics, strengths and principles. The Sun style, one of four widely recognized styles, was chosen as being particularly effective for people with arthritis since it is characterized by:
- Agile steps with many forward and backward movements: After any movement forward or backward with one foot, the foot follows, providing more mobility, which is very helpful to people with arthritis.
- Power Qigong (pronounced “shegone”) exercises facilitate healing, improve breathing and facilitate relaxation.
- Its high stance makes it easier for beginners and older people to learn.
- For persons using a wheelchair or walker, the movements can be modified to be done sitting in a chair or standing using a chair for balance.
- Its great artistic depth holds participant interest.
Target Audience
Tai Chi from the Arthritis Foundation is designed for individuals with or without, arthritis, rheumatic diseases or related musculoskeletal conditions primarily characterized by diffuse muscle pain, decreased muscle strength and fatigue. The program is appropriate for people with mild, moderate or severe joint involvement. The class may consist of people with rheumatoid arthritis, multiple joint osteoarthritis, back problems and those who are elderly or generally reconditioned. Persons with very mild disease, minimal joint involvement or an active daily routine might find the program sufficiently challenging. Some generalized muscle soreness or some feeling of being tired from increased activity may be expected. All ages are welcome.
Twelve Tai Chi Movements Learned
Basic Movements - Commencement Form
- Opening and Closing Hands
- Single Whip
- Waving Hands in the Clouds
- Opening and Closing Hands
- Closing Form
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Advanced Movements - Brush Knee and Twist Step
- Playing the Lute
- Parry and Punch
- Block and Close
- Pushing the Mountain
- Opening and Closing Hands
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The Program’s Demonstrated Benefits
- Decrease in pain and stiffness in joints.
- Improved daily physical functioning.
- Improved balance leading to decrease in falling.
- Improved abdominal muscle strength.
- Increased confidence in one’s ability to exercise.
About the Tai Chi Instructors
UT Extension educators who have successfully completed the Arthritis Foundation Instructor Training Program are certified and approved by the Arthritis Foundation to teach this program. These instructors will demonstrate the joint-safe exercises in this program.
Registration Fee
Registration fee is $48.00 for eight one-hour sessions.
Program Brochure and Registration Form
Take Charge of Your Joints: Tips for Living with Arthritis Brochure (SP526-O)
Program Availability
To find out about availability in your area, check the Arthritis Foundation web page or contact your county UT Extension agent.
Want to Learn More About Arthritis?
To learn more about arthritis and the benefits of physical activity in managing the disease, visit the FCS Health & Safety – Arthritis page for great Web site links!
Test your knowledge of arthritis with our quiz - Arthritis Quiz: Do You Know the Basics?