There is growing evidence that the mind-body Chinese martial art of tai chi has great value in addressing some of Parkinson’s most problematic symptoms, like balance and falling.
Parkinson’s affects one’s proprioception, which is the ability to sense the position of your body in space. A report in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that tai chi helps train sensory neurons in the inner ear and stretch receptors in the muscles and ligaments which improve balance in people with Parkinson’s. Tai chi also improves muscle strength and flexibility, which makes it easier to recover from a stumble. A fear of falling makes you more likely to fall; tai chi can help reduce that fear.
Other smaller studies have reported that tai chi can improve quality of life for both the person with Parkinson’s disease and their support partners. In addition to easing balance problems and possibly other symptoms (like digestive disorders), tai chi can help ease stress and anxiety too.
Tai Chi is low-impact and almost anyone can do it, even if they are in a seated position. The movements are very gentle with the muscles relaxed, rather than tensed.
The benefits of tai chi for Parkinson’s disease have been endorsed by the National Parkinson’s Foundation.
In conclusion, this gentle form of exercise can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, and it could be the perfect activity to add to your high intensity workouts. Kimberly Berg’s Rebel Fit Club isn’t just a boxing gym… come join us for a tai chi class on Saturday mornings at 10:30 AM… it is a beautiful experience!