Tai Chi focuses on improving the mobility and balance of older adults.
Three new senior Tai Chi classes are forming in Ventura over the next few weeks and registration is now open. Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance is a 12-week program offered by Oxnard RSVP and focuses on improving the mobility and balance of older adults.
Classes are free, designed for those age 50 and older, and taught by certified senior volunteers. The evidence-based program consists of a simplified eight-form routine of Yang-style Tai Chi. Intended for beginners who can walk easily with or without assistive devices, it teaches participants balance skills and good body alignment by using coordinated and flowing movements. The classes have been proven to reduce repeated falls by 55%.
New classes are:
- Emerging Spirits Center, 4601 Telephone Road, #113, Oct 2 – Dec 13, T/TH, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- The Bonaventure, 10949 Telegraph Road, Sept 18 – Dec 11, T/TH, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- CMH Wellness and Fitness Center, 2723 E. Main Street, Sept 11 – Dec 4, T/F, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
New participants are accepted only until the third class of each session. To achieve results, they should attend at least 75% of the classes. Call 385-8019 to learn more or to register.
A federal grant received by the City of Oxnard and its RSVP program funds the free exercise classes, which follow curriculum developed at the Oregon Research Institute (in Oregon) where studies showed improved strength and balance, increased mobility and reduced incidence of falls among seniors who participated in the classes.
RSVP is a volunteer recruitment and placement program, helping people 55 and older find volunteer positions that match their interests, talent and available time. The Oxnard RSVP has almost 575 members and is sponsored by the City of Oxnard. To learn more about being an RSVP member or to discuss other volunteer opportunities, call 805-385-8023.
