Classes to begin again in Nekoosa, Rapids

For the Daily Tribune

NEKOOSA -- People are enjoying Tai Chi and all its benefits in Nekoosa and Wisconsin Rapids.

Classes for these gentle exercises, which have been called "medicine in motion," meet twice a week at the Charles and JoAnn Lester Library in Nekoosa.

Virginia Langsdorf enjoys the class and said, "My back sure feels a lot better. Those back stretches are really great."

This is a simplified form of Tai Chi developed by a Tai Chi expert and a physical therapist. There are fewer moves than in traditional Tai Chi.

"It's easy to learn," said Diane Thompson. "The range of difficulty can be adapted to suit the student's flexibility. It can be done anywhere that you have a little time."

Tai Chi is a very good way for people of all ages to have fun and become more fit. Good posture and weight shift are emphasized so balance and strength improve.

"It is amazing how the endurance of the students increases as the weeks go by. They can barely do half the elements when we start and by the end of a six-week session, we are going through the entire routine twice," said instructor Kathy Brazaitis.

Recent research has shown Tai Chi has a positive effect on prevention and treatment for an array of age-related health conditions. Studies in the United States and Australia have shown that practicing Tai Chi regularly decreases falls for seniors.

Stretching exercises and relaxation techniques are also included in the class.

"I find it muscle relaxing and very meditative. I do find a difference in my ability to look over my shoulder when backing up my car," Joanne Votava said.

Classes for beginning students will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning Nov. 10. They will be held at the Charles & JoAnn Lester Library in Nekoosa at 10:30 a.m. and at First English Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids at 3 p.m. Cost is $3 per class on a drop-in basis or $27 for the entire six-week session. All are welcome to come a little earlier and observe the continuing class that meets the hour before or just drop in and try it. Classes are sponsored by the Aging and Disability Resource Center.

Contributed by instructor Kathy Brazaitis.