TAI CHI Tai Chi exercises include a series of gentle, fluid movements that are good for maintaining the mobility and flexibility of the musculo-skeletal system. Tai Chi is an ancient form of exercise that has been practiced in China for hundreds of years.    Modified Tai Chi for Health
·   Tai Chi for Arthritis, Diabetes, Back Pain and Osteoporosis are modified Tai Chi programs for older adults, designed by Dr Paul Lam and a group of medical and Tai Chi experts. Modifed Tai Chi is ideal for older adults due to the slow gentle movements, no high kicks, higher stance used in the forms, attention to the breath and relaxation, emphasis on strengthening and flexibilty and a social element encouraged. These programs have gained worldwide acceptance by Arthritis Foundations and Societies and are proven by scientific studies to be safe and effective. Studies have shown the Tai Chi For Arthritis program relieves pain, improves physical function and balance by 30%, and reduces the risk of falls after three months practice. 6ACC		“Evidence has shown that Tai Chi can help prevent injury and disability in older adults.” The Benefits Include: Improved fitness Increased muscular strength Better balance and mobility Better flexibility A reduced risk of falls Relaxation and stress relief Increased cardio-respiratory fitness    ·   For more information and verification about the Dr Lam's program, Visit www.taichiforarthritis.com
ACC funded Modified Tai Chi Modified Tai Chi is a style of Tai Chi that has been developed for older adults. It focuses on preventing falls by improving lower limb strength and balance. Modified Tai Chi is taught in a group setting in a class of 45 minutes to one hour duration. This programme involves participants attending one class per week over 16 weeks. Why start Tai Chi? Tai Chi is fun and a great way to meet other people in your area and can help you stop falling.   3 For details of ACC funded Tai Chi classes in Franklin, click on Pukekohe or Waiuku Modified Tai Chi from the grey column (above left)		Below is the link to the ACC website listing for ACC Modified Tai Chi instructors in the North Island of New Zealand http://www.acc.co.nz/injury-prevention/home-safety/older-adults/practice-tai-chi/tai-chi-classes/wcmz003430 Who can participate in modified Tai Chi? If you wish to participate in an ACC funded modified Tai Chi class then you will need to be:     aged 65 years or older (55 years or older if Maori or Pacific) living independently in the community have had a fall in the last 12 months, or if not had a fall, deemed to be at high risk of a fall by a registered health professional assessed to ensure that you are not in the small percentage of people who are too fit or too frail for the class. (This assessment occurs once you have made contact with you local provider).