What is the Tai Chi for Arthritis Program?
In 1997, Dr Paul Lam, a family physician and tai chi master, led a team of tai chi and medical specialists to create this unique program. The special feature of Tai Chi for Arthritis is that it is easy and enjoyable to learn, bringing with it the many health benefits safely and quickly. Since then, medical studies have shown this program help to reduce pain significantly and improve on many aspects of health. For this reason, arthritis foundations around the world are giving it their full support.

Now by 2010, over two million people with or without arthritis have learnt the program to improve their health and quality of lives. It is also a suitable program for any beginner.

The program is based on Sun style tai chi, chosen because of it's healing component and unique qigong (exercise to improve relaxation and vital energy). It contains a carefully constructed set of warming up and cooling down exercises, the Basic core 6 movements and Advanced extension 6 movements and Qigong breathing exercises. People with and without disability can learn the program with suitable adaptation, for example you can learn and benefit from practicing it seated!

Most people can learn the essence of the program in days, weeks and, at most, several months. It has much depth so you can continue to improve and enjoy higher level of tai chi, greater health benefits for many year. All certified instructors are familiar with how to teach this program safely and effectively. >> more.

For more information, click on the topic below:

• What are the benefits?

• How to learn?

• How to become an instructor?

• How does it work?

Click for more questions and answers, and to download a PDF fact sheet of the program.

What is the Benefits of Learning the Program?

• Proven to be reduce pain, improve quality of life and safe

• Easy to learn

• Contains essential Tai Chi principles, precautions, warm up, Qigong and two sets of forms - in one complete package

• Ideal for beginners with or without arthritis

• Friendly and caring instructors who are trained to teach the program safely

Who Can Learn the Program?

click here for Dr Lam's answer

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How to learn Tai Chi for Arthritis? 

It is important to start your journey to better health with the right first step. For people with or without arthritis, Tai Chi for Arthritis is a good way to start because it is an enjoyable and safe set of forms that is quick to deliver many health benefits.

1. Use Dr Lam's teach-yourself instructional DVD in six languages. Complement with his book "Overcoming Arthritis" which has many photos and instructions.
2. You can also find an instructor who understands your condition and is learner friendly. Dr Lam and his master trainers have trained thousands of qualified instructors/leaders of this program. You can find them through your local arthritis foundation, online at Dr Lam's website or contact his office.
3. Persevere with your practise. Give yourself time to get to enjoy Tai Chi for Arthritis and its health benefits.

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How does it work?

Health and exercise experts agree that an exercise program for people with arthritis should incorporate components that can improve muscular strength, flexibility, and fitness.

Muscular strength is essential for supporting and protecting joints, which will reduce pain. Flexibility exercises also help to reduce pain and stiffness, thus improve mobility. Stamina or fitness is important for overall health and proper function of your heart, lungs, and muscles. Doing every day tasks even as simple as climbing stairs or walking to the shops will be easier with good stamina.

Tai Chi for Arthritis can help people with arthritis to do all these and more. Additional benefits include improve relaxation, balance, posture, and immunity.

Tai chi is designed to enhance Qi. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that Qi is the life energy essential to good health and longevity. Tai Chi for Arthritis is especially effective for arthritis because of its powerful Qigong exercises to enhance healing.

Medical evidence is the best proof of what really works. There are now several well designed studies which have shown people with arthritis who practice this program were relieved of pain significantly. They discovered more ease and mobility to go about their daily tasks. Their balance was improved with risk of falls reduced. The studies have also shown the program was safe and easy to learn. What's more, most people from the studies felt much better about themselves after having learnt Tai Chi for Arthritis.

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