In partnership with the Tennessee Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, the University of Tennessee Extension is offering Tai Chi to Tennessee residents.

To increase the quality of life of persons affected by arthritis through physical activity.

1. 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.
2. To deliver maximum relief from the main problems experienced by people with arthritis - namely pain and stiffness.
3. To benefit health in general.
4. To improve relaxation.

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.

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.

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.

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 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)

To find out about availability in your area, check the Arthritis Foundation web page or contact your county UT Extension agent​.

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?​​​​​

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