Tai Ji Quan:
Moving for Better Balance

 

What is Tai Ji Quan?

 

Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance (TJQ) is a
functional therapythat has evolved from Tai Ji Quan
martial arts principles into a non-competitive, 8-form,
contemporary activity.

​

This development makes it ideal for people of various
ages who wish to practice for leisure, mindful nurturing
of well-being, enhancing physical fitness, prevention
or slowing of disease progression and relief from
symptoms of disease.

​

Research shows that people who complete the program
are half as likely to fall and are less fearful of falling! 

​

TJQ integrates motor, sensory and cognitive components
to improve postural control, gait and mobility.

​

TJQ transforms martial arts movements into a therapeutic regimen aimed at improving postural
stability, awareness and mindful control of body positioning in space, functional walking, movement symmetry and coordination, range of motion around the ankle and hip joints, and lower-extremity muscle strength.

​

TJQ includes twelve one-hour sessions for a small group led by a trained facilitator. This nationally recognized program was developed by Fuzhong Li, Ph.D., a Senior Scientist at Oregon Research Institute.

 

During the class, participants learn 8-forms of Yang style Tai Chi adapted for fall prevention.

​

The 8-forms of Yang style Tai Chi are:

• Hold a Ball

• Part the Wild Horse's Mane

• Single Whip

• Wave Hands like Clouds

• Repulse the Monkey

• Brush Knees

• Fair Lady Works at Shuttles

• Grasp the Peacock's Tail

​

Who Should Attend a Tai Ji Quan Class?

 

The program was designed to benefit community-dwelling older adults who:

• Are concerned about falls

• Have sustained falls in the past

• Restrict activities because of concerns about falling

• Are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength

• Are age 60 or older, ambulatory and able to problem solve

​

Anyone can participate. Seated, standing or both. Movements are slow, smooth and safe!

 

 

What Participants Say About Tai Ji Quan:

 

“The class helped me be able to use old muscles I have not used in a while. 
Now I can stretch my arms up very high.”

​

“I was walking with a cane for a couple of years. After I joined the class
I am able to walk without a cane.”

​

“This exercise program helped me a lot with emotional stress and
physical improvement.”

​

​

To find out more information about these services call the Senior LinkAge Line at (800) 333-2433!