To the sounds of an Asian flute and gentle wateralls, Callaway County seniors practice the ancient martial arts form known as Tai Chi every Monday and Friday morning at the Callaway Senior Center. The practice is noted for its many health benefits such as improving balance, muscle strength and flexibility.
"I'm doing things now that I would have never been able to do a year ago," said Emery Smola, who has been part of the class for almost a year. Smola, who suffers from Osteoarthritis, said that when he began the class his balance was poor and that he had pain throughout his body. His rheumatologist signed off on his participation, and the flexibility in his shoulders, hips and ankles has greatly improved.
"Seniors also tend to have shallow breathing," he added. "Tai Chi focuses on deep breathing which helps prevent pneumonia."
According to a Stanford University website on the history of Tai Ch, it was initially used "as a fighting form, emphasizing strength, balance, flexibility, and speed. Through time it has evolved into a soft, slow, and gentle form of exercise which can be practiced by people of all ages."
The slow, sustained movement is why it is often recommended for seniors as it is less likely for them to incur an injury through this form of exercise. It also promotes relaxation, blood circulation and is thought to create bone density.
Gary Eikermann is also a participant in the class. Mr. Eikermann has had five back surgeries and seven surgeries on his right shoulder, one of which was a recent partial shoulder replacement. He feels that he has more flexibility in his body after beginning the classes.
Judy Baumgartner, who has been teaching the class for about three years, has seen interest continue to grow. She said she is aware of physicians who recommend that their patients take part.
"When we began it was only four or five students, and one day it was only a single student, but we held the class anyway," she said. Now the class usually tops out at around 25 participants. Baumgartner also teaches chair Tai Chi at Churchill Terrace in Fulton once a month. These classes are modified for those who aren't as stable on their feet.
Other health benefits for seniors, as noted with the Mayo Clinic website, include decreased anxiety and depression, improved aerobic capacity and increased energy levels.
"It's made me feel like a whole new person," said Smola.