Tai chi

 The body must be exercised carefully, with a clear emphasis upon safety and relaxation.

Sifu Waller's approach to tai chi is ideal for people with arthritis because we keep certain considerations in mind at all times:

1. Natural stances - you should not stretch, stride or over-reach at any time

2. Smoothness - the movements must be gentle, flowing and relaxed

3. Small circle - the postures are natural and the waist turns are gentle

4. Stepping - agile footwork must be used rather than lengthy steps

5. Softness - muscle tension must be avoided at all costs

6. Balance – stability-awareness training and strength-building

These factors combine to produce a very gentle yet subtly demanding workout for people who suffer from arthritis.

What causes arthritis?

People aren't entirely sure.

The condition cannot be cured but it often responds to treatment.

Some possible causes of arthritis: obesity, repeated joint injuries and stress.

Joint problems

Arthritis is a joint-related condition that affects billions of people as they grow older.

It typically involves pain, inflammation and stiffness.

 There is irrefutable evidence that exercise benefits most aspects of health.

Exercise is an essential part of therapeutic approach for arthritis.
Pain and stiffness of the joints tend to discourage patients from exercising.
However without exercise, joints can become even more stiff and painful.
This happens because exercise actually keeps bones, muscles and joints healthy.

It is important to keep muscles as strong as possible because the stronger the muscles and tissues around joints are, the better they will be able to support and protect those joints.
If people do not exercise, their muscles become weaker,
and their bones can become osteoporotic.
Exercise pumps blood and body fluid through to the muscles, tendons and the joints,
which will facilitate healing.

(Dr Paul Lam)