TAI CHI FOR GOOD HEALTH AND FALLS PREVENTION
Robert Gemmell Tai Chi New Zealand has developed
a Modified Tai Chi Programme as a part of an ACC
Falls Prevention programme. Medical research has
supported the claim that Tai Chi when practised
weekly can reduce the risk of falling by up to
eighty percent. Targeting the sixty five plus
age group, the ACC programme has identified Tai
Chi as beneficial to the "Stay on your Feet"
campaign.
Falling has become a major cause of death in
elderly people. Strength and balance quickly develops
with Tai Chi practise. Robert Gemmell, one of
New Zealand's leading Martial Arts Masters learned
Tai Chi in China where he returns on a regular
basis. (Most recent visit December 2005)."Traditional
Tai Chi", he says "is wonderful for
those able enough to do it." Robert has thousands
of students throughout the South Pacific region
practising both traditional and modified Tai Chi.
Many elderly people are enrolling in his classes
around the country as a result of the modifications
that he has introduced. Whereas some Tai Chi programmes
exclude people because they may suffer from a
disability, Robert believes that anyone can do
Tai Chi regardless of age or fitness level. It
is recommended however that people interested
in Tai Chi first check with their medical adviser
as to their suitability for Tai Chi practise.
Robert's modified forms are based upon traditional
Tai Chi and offer the older students an opportunity
to do Tai Chi where otherwise they might not.
Modified Tai Chi is a gentle exercise which delivers
a subtle but effective fitness programme for the
elderly. The Robert Gemmell Teaching System uses
a FIVE STEP METHOD. Each step
builds on the previous stage from sitting to walking
with Tai Chi forms.
Robert Gemmell Tai Chi New Zealand classes
operate in Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Marlborough
and Christchurch region.
CONTACTS :
- Head Office – E-mail
[r.gem@xtra.co.nz]
- Robert Gemmell – National Training
Director
- Mary Davey – National Administration
Director
- Wellington Tel. 04 2375 255–
Paul Verrall – Wellington
- Auckland - Quintin Derham 09 376
2355 Auckland Programme Manager
- Website www.taichinewzealand.co.nz
- www.robertgemmell-martialarts.co.nz
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