MARION, Ill. – Older adults are more likely to fall, which can cause serious injury. Many studies have shown that tai chi is one of the most effective approaches for preventing falls. Medical authorities agree that suitable exercise for people with arthritis should incorporate components that can improve muscular strength, flexibility, and fitness. Illinois Extension is excited to offer a Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention program in Jackson and Williamson Counties.
Join Family Life Educator Robin Ridgley and learn how Tai Chi for Arthritis can help people with arthritis to improve their muscular strength, flexibility and fitness. Ridgley said aging is an inevitable process that uniquely affects everyone.
“We can’t stop the aging process, but we can take care of our physical health,” said Ridgley. “We want to empower older adults with the movements of Tai Chi while fostering strength, balance, and confidence.”
Sessions for the first class will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Williamson County Extension Office at 1301 Enterprise Way, Suite 60 Marion, IL 62959. Sessions for the second class will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Jackson County Extension Office at 402 Ava Rd. Murphysboro, IL 62966. Both classes will meet on the following dates:
Oct. 21 & 24
Oct. 28 & 31
Nov. 4 & 7
Nov. 11 &14
Nov. 18 & 21
Nov. 25
Dec. 2 & 5
Dec. 9 &12
Each session builds on what has already been learned, so registration includes the full duration of this eight-week program. Commitment to the full program is recommended due to class format. Register online at go.illinois.edu/TaiChi, call the Williamson County Extension office at (618) 993-3304 or call the Jackson County Extension office at (618) 687-1727.
**Please consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program. Participants will be asked to sign a disclaimer before participating in any physical activities.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.