Tag: Fitness

It’s time to begin Tai Chi

Carol Emerson Tai Chi is an ancient system of exercise that originated in the Taoist temples of China over 2000 years ago. The monks of the temples developed Tai Chi as a way to keep themselves physically fit while spending many hours in meditation and also as a means (they hoped) to obtain longevity, even…

EZ Riders ride in any kind o weather

Three new EZ Riders, front, left to right: are Linda Ryan, Ted Reingold and Deanna McCann. Back row, four of the EZ Rider leaders: Keith Dickmann, Sy Efron, Marje Valenti and Gary Haslett

Jim Ryan Raining? No problem. Hot? No problem. Cold? No problem. EZ Riders indoor cyclists can ride in any type of weather and you are invited to saddle up. Indoor cycling on a specially designed computerized stationary bike is the perfect way to increase your cardio strength, balance and endurance. The sessions are led by…

Tai Chi classes

Carol Emerson Many of us find that while we used to run, do yoga and play sports, our bodies just can’t take that kind of physical stress anymore. Tai Chi provides a great alternative. Although it is slow and gentle and doesn’t leave you breathless, it addresses the key components of fitness — muscle strength,…

Summer exercise

Susan Dawson-Cook As Tucson temperatures rise to a thermometer-bursting 115 degrees, I know I’m not the only one trying to nudge a rebelling body into motion. The heat is draining. And sometimes, it can be downright dangerous. Several people have died in recent weeks hiking in this scorching heat with inadequate water. It’s important to…

Tai Chi news

Carol Emerson Tai Chi is an ancient art related to Chinese medicine. It consists of meditative movement, breathing and intentional relaxation practiced with the goal of bringing our bodies and minds into a greater state of health, harmony and balance. By practicing Tai Chi, we learn to deepen our breathing and clear our thoughts as…

Live young

Susan Dawson-Cook, M.S. Remember when your mom told you to act your age? A request that made sense for you to obey as a youth might not be in your best interest now. Rebel against acting your age as an older adult and you’ll experience increased vitality, fitness and health. Living Young is just one…

Train and live for good posture

Susan Dawson-Cook Improving and maintaining optimal posture takes effort. When your body feels tired, gravity can quickly drag you into a slouch. Eventually, poor posture can become chronic. You can improve balance by changing your workouts and becoming more mindful about posture throughout your day. Adopting mom posture is very common after giving birth but…

Tai Chi student promotions

Carol Emerson Ken and I are happy to announce the recent promotions of eight of our students! They have all worked extremely hard and we are very proud of their accomplishments. Pictured left to right: Carol Emerson Shifu, purple belt Lynda Green, white belt Larry Fahrney, purple belt Joyce Schneider, white belts Patrice Passer, Marsha…

Maintain motivation

Susan Dawson-Cook March is a big month for New Year’s resolution dropouts. The gym overflows with new exercise enthusiasts January and February and then all at once, it’s back to only the regulars who have been exercising for years. If you want to avoid becoming another one of the disappearing exercisers, here are a few…

Benefits and misconceptions of Tai Chi

Carol Emerson The ancient practice of Tai Chi is growing in popularity. More and more I see Tai Chi classes offered at gyms, park departments and even yoga studios! Why is that? The fact is study after study has shown that a consistent Tai Chi practice makes us healthier, stronger and more well-balanced (physically and…