Tai Chi has been practiced in China for centuries as a martial art, as exercise and as a means of improving the flow of internal energy (chi) within the body. Consisting of gentle movements flowing into each other, Tai Chi needs no special gear or clothing and be practiced alone or as part of a group.

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Taught as a form/pattern, with a series of actions flowing into each other without pause, there are a variety of different styles, the most common being Chen, Sun, Wu and Yang. The styles vary subtly with the emphasis on variations in teaching and forms. Different teaching methods may emphasise the martial aspect, others the breathing and meditative aspects. Tai Chi can be practiced at your own pace. It is suitable for the young fit athlete, through to a more mature participant including those with knee and hip replacements.

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Kaikoura Physiotherapy Ltd teaches the Sun and Yang versions of Tai Chi. The classes are held in small relaxed groups by an instructor with over tens years’ experience with various Tai Chi styles.

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Benefits include:

 

• Supple joints

• Improved balance

• Stress relief

• Improves flexibility

• Improved strength in the limbs

• Improved cardiovascular fitness