SENIORS gather at the Rod Evans Community Centre every Thursday to explore the benefits of Tai Chi for the elderly.
Ned Martino, who turns 87 next month, travels to the East Perth Centre from Innaloo each week, and said tai chi had improved his balance.
“I am one who is always on the go; I like to walk or run,” he said.
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READ NOW“I thought Tai Chi was too slow for me. But then I needed help with my balance.
“It’s marvellous! Tai Chi has been beneficial for my balance, most importantly, but it’s also great for relaxation.”
The sessions are run by Stay On Your Feet, an organisation that will be holding Tai Chi for Arthritis training later this month.
Stay On Your Feet hope that fitness instructors, nurses, health practitioners and therapy assistants will attend the two day instructor workshop from June 25-26 at the Notre Dame University Student Recreation Hall in Fremantle.
Arthritis & Osteoporosis WA Community Project co-ordinator Mel Browne said she was delighted to hear there was momentum for Tai Chi for Arthritis training.
“Tai Chi for Arthritis is gentle exercise program which can be done in the comfort of your home or in a group session,” said Ms Browne.
Tai Chi for Arthritis works to prevent falls by improving balance, confidence and muscular strength in older adults.
Injury Control Council of WA’s falls prevention co-ordinator Juliana Summers said, “Due to the popularity of strength and balance activities and the relevance of preventing falls, we want to encourage more Perth residents with an interest in delivering Tai Chi to get involved”.
For Tai Chi instructor training registrations and for strength and balance information or call 1300 303 540.
Registrations close mid June.