Carol Emerson
Ken Emerson
The hot days of summer have arrived and it’s time for some relaxing indoor activities. Tai Chi is a great way to relax while, at the same time, experiencing some gentle exercise, settling the mind and learning something new (and good for you!). The summer classes tend to be smaller so we are able to give students more personal attention and we practice indoors in air-conditioned comfort. It really is a good time to begin.
Tai Chi is recommended for people of all ages, but especially for older people who want to be physically active in a less strenuous way. The gentle, circular movements increase flexibility and range of motion and the slow, flowing nature of the art generate a feeling of peace and well-being. Other benefits noted in studies include increased strength (particular lower body strength which is important in fall prevention), helping to reduce stress, improvements in blood pressure, reduction in blood sugar and increase feeling of well-being. Of course, these come from a consistent practice, which is generally thought of as three hours per week. That would mean one hour in class plus 17 minutes a day of practice.
Classes are held each week at the HOA1 Fitness Center. The cost is $10 per class. Beginning classes are Sunday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., intermediate classes are Saturday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and advanced classes are Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
For more information, or to register, call Carol or Ken Emerson at 825-9206.
Your instructors, Carol and Ken Emerson, have been teaching Tai Chi in SaddleBrooke for nine years and have been studying martial arts for over 30 years. They are members of the Ching Yi Kung Fu Association, which traces its lineage back to Yang, Cheng-Fu and Yang, Lu-Chan – the founders of the Yang School of Tai Chi.