Tai chi classes to begin at NFM Community Park
Tai chi (pronounced “tie chee”) is an ancient Chinese martial art that has been practiced for many years and has numerous style variations. So what is tai chi and why has it become so popular? Many refer to tai chi as meditation in motion.
According to renowned local fitness instructor Hilmar Fuchs, with tai chi one performs slow movements as fluid as silk, while integrating steps, shifting weight and rotating the body.
“It’s all about harmony between body, mind and soul,” he said.
He recently gave a free demonstration on the tai chi classes he plans to teach in mid-March at the North Fort Myers Community Park Community Center.
“Our goal would be to balance bracing and coordination,” he said. “It’s good for people ages 40 years and up, not for children. It’s helpful for some to diffuse high blood pressure. You become more relaxed and limber.”
Fuchs is at this moment in his homeland of Germany, but is excited to return to North Fort Myers and start the classes in mid-March.
“It’s a new program to the park,” said Senior Recreation Specialist Libby Olive. “Hilmar, the instructor, does other programs here that are great and wanted to see if there would be a need for this class in the community. Exercise classes are popular here.”
Fuchs explained that tai chi is the ultimate low-impact exercise because it can be done by anyone who can walk. The increasing popularity of tai chi is due to its many benefits, he said. Studies have shown this exercise can lower blood pressure and heart rate, ease arthritis pain, help prevent osteoporosis, reduce stress, improve concentration and balance, increase energy levels and overall increases life longevity.
Once scarce, tai chi classes can now be found through YMCAs, some churches, community centers, karate schools and even through some health maintenance organizations, noted Olive.
Tai chi classes will begin March 10 and continue through April 2. They will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 2 p.m. at the North Fort Myers Community Center. The cost is $56 for a four-week, eight-class session. To register, call 533-7440.
For information on park classes, call 652-6002