In Toronto, a study with 206 participants found that Tai Chi Chuan improved the lower legs and foot flexibility significantly with those afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers used three groups and one with 'traditional therapy'. The Tai Chi group improved their range of motion better than the other groups after a few months.

The researchers also found that those who participated were more compliant to doing their exercise (they enjoyed their tai chi much more than lifting weights), and they continued their practice even after the study.

In a seperate study at San Francisco, they found that women with cardiac disease have a very high 'quit rate' when put in exercise classes to assist with their coronary risk factors. This study used the basic 24 movement Tai Chi Yang Style form over 3 months, with 27 women, average 64 years old. Every woman had:

* All had at least one Coronary risk factor
* 56% had arthritis
* 97% had high blood pressure
* 44% had high cholesterol
* 26% had diabetes

All participants learned the Tai Chi Short form and there were NO FALLS OR INJURIES. The researchers found that "this is a very acceptable form of exercise training and produced significant health improvements." Currently the most recommended form of exercise for these same women is to walk on a treadmill. Boring

Using tai chi as a vehicle to improve health is excellent. You can practice everyday, does not require special clothing or place.

Categories Posted in Style: Tai Chi
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