Tai Chi Classes in Conway AR - Learn the Basics of Tai Chi
Tai chi is not just a series of performances or poses. Tai chi is a form of martial arts that is widely practiced and can be found in almost every corner of the world. In fact, it is so popular that it has been called “the invisible sport” because most people are unaware that it even exists until they meet someone who practices it. In its traditional form, tai chi involves slow, deliberate movements and breathing techniques to help reduce stress, improve focus, and prevent injury when practicing more vigorous martial arts such as karate or judo. Today, most people associate tai chi with the performance of simple movements called “postures” at an extremely slow pace. If you want to learn more about this incredible art form, read on to discover everything you need to know about tai chi classes in Conway AR .
What Is Tai Chi?
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that uses slow, controlled movements to promote health and wellness. It is usually practiced in a group setting, often in parks or other public spaces. Tai chi is often confused with t’ai chi ch’uan, which is the name of the specific martial art form of tai chi. Tai chi is a form of meditation that also promotes physical fitness, while t’ai chi ch’uan is a martial art. While tai chi can be practiced at a variety of paces, it is often performed at a slow pace to promote relaxation. The goal of tai chi is to assist people in finding a sense of balance and harmony within themselves and with the world around them. In its most traditional form, tai chi is a slow and deliberate exercise that involves meditation-like breathing techniques and fluid movements.
Why Practice Tai Chi?
Tai chi is an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages. If you’re new to tai chi, you might start with a slower pace that helps you focus on your breathing and posture. This will help you relax and get into a meditative state while also strengthening your muscles and improving your balance and coordination. If you’re already experienced with tai chi, you can speed up the pace to challenge yourself and burn more calories. Tai chi is also a great way to manage stress. Practicing tai chi regularly can help you manage negative emotions and prevent emotional outbursts. It can also help you fall asleep faster and live a healthier lifestyle and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
How to Perform the Posture Moves?
Tai chi has nine basic postures. These postures can be practiced as a group and in a sequence, or they can be performed individually. The postures are easy to learn and can be done by anyone who is healthy enough to stand upright. The basic tai chi posture moves are: Breathing. - To begin the postures, stand in an upright posture with your feet parallel and hip-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Gently press your lower abdominal muscles out and try to keep your shoulders relaxed. Walking - Once you’ve got your posture in order, begin walking with a slow rhythm. Try to put one foot forward and then bring the other foot forward until the toes of both feet are touching. Turning - To turn, simply rotate the foot that is in front. Extend your foot to come to a complete stop before turning the other way. Squatting - Squat down by bending your knees and sitting back on your heels. Lifting - Lift your arms up above your head, palms facing toward one another. Then bend at the knees and hips and lower yourself towards the ground, making sure to keep your back straight.
Tai Chi Benefits for Health
The health benefits of tai chi are astounding. This form of exercise is excellent for overall health and wellness, as well as mental and emotional health. It also promotes longevity and can be done by people of all ages and physical abilities. Tai chi can improve your balance and coordination, increase your energy, reduce stress, improve your sleep, and improve your overall mood. It can also improve your circulation and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Tai chi is also highly beneficial for people with arthritis, asthma, and diabetes. It can also help people who are overweight or have back or joint pain become more active and improve their quality of life.
Tai Chi for Self-Defense
Tai chi as a martial art is generally associated with the internal styles of Chinese martial arts that derived from Taoist and Buddhist meditation techniques, with an emphasis on health, longevity, and self-control. In martial arts terms, it is a form of soft tai chi chuan (or "Chinese handball") rather than the more typical external forms of tai chi chuan that are often practiced for self-defense. Tai chi has been studied for its potential for improving health and wellness, but it has also been observed that the practice of tai chi can be an effective self-defense technique. While most people associate martial arts with fighting and self-defense, there are many other benefits to practising martial arts.
Silver Sneakers Accepted!
SilverSneakers is a fitness program for adults 65 and older that is included with many Medicare plans. It includes live online fitness classes, as well as an on-demand video library of prerecorded workouts, in addition to other benefits.
Members can participate in fun senior fitness classes led by expert instructors, as well as exercise classes. You can also go to a large variety of gyms, community centers, and other fitness facilities all over the country using the SilverSneakers GO app (free for iOS and Android).
You can find a supportive, welcoming community both in person and online. Its goal is to keep you healthy in mind, body, and spirit. You'll stay healthy if you regularly exercise, thanks to your heart, brain, bones, muscles, and joints.
Tai-Chi will also keep your joints safe if you have osteoporosis or arthritis. Exercise is essential for good health, and socializing is also critical. 94% of SilverSneakers members concur as it is beneficial for their health and well-being.
Conclusion
Tai chi is a form of martial arts that is widely practiced and can be found in almost every corner of the world. In fact, it is so popular that it has been called “the invisible sport” because most people are unaware that it even exists until they meet someone who practices it. Tai chi is an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages. If you’re new to tai chi, you might start with a slower pace that helps you focus on your breathing and posture. This will help you relax and get into a meditative state while also strengthening your muscles and improving your balance and coordination. If you’re already experienced with tai chi, you can speed up the pace to challenge yourself and burn more calories.
About Curtiss Robinson and his Tai Chi beginnings
I turned 50 in 2021, and it seemed my warrantee ran out. I developed aches and pains that I never had before. Most of them were joint related, but even my typically strong muscles were now achier than before. As a lifelong martial artist, I wondered if my time for training was over. I wondered if I was destined to simply coach from the sidelines.
My good friend Ray Ferrell is about ten years older than I am. He had similar issues ten years ago and even had hip replacement surgery. When I asked him if he was still training, he said, “Absolutely.” Apparently, he has been doing Tai Chi for years, and he has found it to be both challenging and helpful with his fitness over age 60. I was skeptical. I started researching Tai Chi.
Did you know that Tai Chi has been growing worldwide into a life-changing health system for people age 50 and older? Did you know that seniors well over age 80 are enjoying Tai Chi as part of their daily fitness routine? Google it and be amazed.
Tai Chi is an internally focused martial art. It is well over 3,000 years old. Its origin was in China during the Zhou Dynasty, circa 1100 BC. It has over 300 million practitioners today. It is an ancient system of fighting, but it has become a health- and fitness-focused method in modern times. It is centered on slow movements and balance (something Americans over age 50 need). It is low impact and safe for individuals with arthritis, blood pressure concerns, and heart problems.
What do you need to try a class?
Call/text us at 501-515-4788 to try out a free week of classes. No charge and no strings attached to try out Tai Chi. If you love us and love the program, we ask for $10/class. We can also set up recurring charges for convenience. We are located at 807 Bill Dean Drive, Conway Arkansas. Join today.