Since I've been on medication for COPD, my balance has not been as good as it used to be. My GP says that is probably the Spiriva, but nothing to worry about.
It's not too bad, but I wondered whether anyone had tried Tai Chi and whether it has improved your breathing and balance?
Lynne xx
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I haven't done dedicated tai chi exercise for a good number of years but I think it would improve your balance, unsure it would achieve as good a result on the respiratory apparatus as much as a pulmonary or cardiac ongoing exercise routine would. I have been diagnosed in excess of 9 years I have never stopped exercising in all that time, my breathing, mobility, flexibility and balance have improved immensely over the years, I put that down to staying smoke free, avoiding infections wherever I can and persisting with exercise as well as eating good nutritional food of course.
I guess some pulmo and cardiac routines don't include balance so the tai chi in addition to the pulmonary and cardiac exercise routine would be of help no doubt. Tai chi exercise would also be good for anyone who gets stressed, suffers from anxiety, can't relax and suffers from depression but then same applies to most exercise. Tai chi is a relaxing form of exercise that does build strength, helps with flexibility and balance, I am unsure if it can achieve a good enough cardiac and respiratory work out though for people with a lung condition. Check with your doctor or pulmonary team to see what they think about it.
Thanks Zoee.
I already do about 3 to 4 hours or so of cardio and pulmo exercise per week at the gym so this is in addition. I'm really hoping it helps the balance as I really enjoyed my first class.
Lynne xx
That's great, I am sure the addition of tai chi will help.
I added in Tai Chi some time ago and believe it benefits me. I also had some balance problems a few years ago, but they were slight and I did not mention them to anyone. I don't have them now - so it must work! Good luck Lynne. x
Balance is alway's a problem, especially at this time of year. Its a side effect of that very powerfull drug Alcohol!!! Ha Ha. Thin it down a little with a mixer and Im sure you'll be fine. Dr. Dall05.
I've not tried Tai Chi although I have fancied giving it a go but I have also been tempted by Pilates. It seems ideal for folk like us as possibly does Tai Chi. I'll look with interest to see if snyone has.
Marie x
I used to do Pilates and its great. It just doesn't fit in now with when I work. I think either would be good to try.
Lynne xx
HI Lnne i started a in November a Tai Chi (easy first 20 moves)/and Chi Gong class after my Doctor recommed I should for breathing and posture. I have found both my breathing and balance have improved greatly and would greatly miss my weekly class. The moves are gentle and medative and look beautiful when mastered for - example by the chinese people in the parks! I however have not mastered this look yet and find myself more flapping seagull than graceful crane! but I so would recommend you and everyone give tai chi a try. You can get my information on types of Tai chi and classes ect if you type in google Wales - tai Chi Union for great Britain. Hope this helps and Good Luck.BBxx
(ps also on Spirva)
Hi everyone,
Tai Chi is being bought into more and more Pulmonary Rehabilitation courses therefore the professionals must believe there is a benefit. It should always be a supplement to the cardio and strengthening exercises you have been advised to do. But it sounds like you're already doing those, so if you want to do some extra Tai Chi, then go for it!
Ask at your gym or use good old google, just found this now but I'm sure there's others:
taichifinder.co.uk/classes/...
Please let us know how you get on!
BLF Active
Hi,
I got dragged along to Tai Chi by my friend and I must say it's the best thing she has every made me do. Since going I can stand on one leg and there is one exercise which opens up your lungs so my breathing has got better.
I really love and would recommend it to a friend!!
Regards,
Puffers
Thanks everyone. I really enjoyed my first class. I can't go to the second one as I am working, but I have already booked for week 3.
Lynne xx
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