07/11/2019 / By Michelle Simmons
Tai chi is an ancient form of martial art that is now being used for improving health, especially among older adults. One of its potential benefits is its ability to help improve balance. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine revealed that tai chi is an effective practice to improve balance, reducing the risk of falls in at-risk and frail individuals.
In the study, a team of researchers from the University of Jaen in Spain evaluated 13 controlled trials that analyzed the effectiveness of tai chi in fall prevention in adults who are frail or at risk of falling. Based on the data that the research team collected, the practice of tai chi significantly reduced the risk of falling. Additionally, the team revealed that tai chi is more effective than other measures, or no intervention, for fall prevention in at-risk populations.
With these findings, the research team concluded that tai chi is can help reduce the risk of falling for people who are frail. (Related: Tai chi better than strength training and aerobics at preventing falls among seniors.)
Many studies have also looked at the other health benefits of practicing tai chi. Listed below are some of those benefits.
Although tai chi is a gentle, low-impact activity and is generally considered safe, it is important to seek medical advice before starting. This particularly applies to people who are older, pregnant, or have back pain and osteoporosis. If you’re new to tai chi, it’s best to attend a class or work with an instructor to reduce your risk of injury, as tai chi focuses on proper posture and exact movements, something that is difficult to learn on your own.
You can find more studies on tai chi and its health benefits at HealingArts.news.
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alternative medicine, balance, fall prevention, fall reduction, holistic treatment, natural cures, natural healing, natural medicine, Naturopathy, prevention, remedies, research, tai chi, therapies
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