The relationship between the practice of martial art and health in the elderly is a key to maintain physical fitness even in the old age. A form of Chinese martial art, Tai Chi is most commonly practiced as a combination of circular, slow movements. It is considered one of the most popular forms of physical exercise in the world and it is used primarily to improve physical and mental health.
Research indicates that Tai Chi is a significant and powerful tool in enhancing the strength and balance, preventing falls and even improving arthritis in the elderly. The Harvard Medical School did a recent study that indicated that older women who practice tai chi regularly experienced a better fitness boost than walking briskly for three hours per week.
The researchers found better oxygen utilization in those who practiced Tai Chi. They also found that they had better balance, better flexibility and better strength overall. The control group was sedentary and a secondary group walked briskly while the research group practiced Tai Chi. There was even a significant decrease in sympathetic nerve activity in the Tai Chi group. This decrease combined with an increase in parasympathetic nerve activity told the researchers that the Tai Chi group was also experienced a greater level of stress reduction.
According to most research, the most important ingredient in long-term health or even the treatment of chronic disease is increased physical activity. So, sense the best type of physical activity is often based on the physical fitness and age of the person needing the exercise – it’s important to recognize that Tai Chi is great for all age groups and levels of physical fitness.
It’s excellent because it improves age-related problems. It can help people suffering from arthritis and even osteoporosis and there is even some evidence in recent research studies that indicate that Tai chi and the enhanced mind and body connection can help protect against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Have you ever tried out Tai Chi?
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