Tai'chi Or Pilates

[jacklee]

which do you recommend for a 90 year old as a form of exercise?
Any book for beginners?
Doubt if I could attend a local class unless it was very near home.
Answers on a postcard please!

[jomifl]

Disco dancing if you've got the MP3 downloads mastered.

[society]

Hello Jacklee, for you I'd recommend Tai Chi. It's a gentle and relaxing workout, involving a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner.

[jacklee]

Thanks jomifl - bit late in the day - I'm 90!

Thanks society - rather fancy pilates -where do I start please?
Nice to hear from you.
jacklee

[boxtops]

Pilates is supposed to be good.

I'm not fit - I went to yoga for the first time tonight - I wish I hadn't.

[yogasun]

Although a Yoga teacher (and Pilates is based a lot on Yoga exercises) I have studied Tai Chi for 9 years and that would suit you as it's good for balance and co-ordination and leg strength. Pilates will focus on your core muscles and a large part of class generally is done from a lying down position.
All classes vary. A good Pilates class will only have a relatively small number of people in it for individual attention.
Tai Chi is, as society described, a moving meditation.
Try both!

[backtalk]

I always recommend that an elderly person get familiar with a few yoga positions that are easy for them. Tai'chi or Pilates might be a little complicated for an older woman, especially if she is just starting out.

[Tilly2]

Well, that's o.k. 'cos Jack's a man.

[jacklee]

Hi everybody and thanks for all your useful comments.
Sounds as if Tai chi wins!
Will let you know how i get on assuming I can motivate myself to start!
Cheers

[joe.s-b]

It shouldn't be assumed that older people are slow brained. Most are very mentally active. Both yoga and pilates are good exercises but Tai Chi is much better for older citizens. I have started Tai Chi again after many years, I am now 89 and find it does need a lot of mental effort. It can be taken at your own pace and is good to do at home. There are many sites on the internet so you can try without buying a DVD. Try it and you may be surprised. All the best

[joe.s-b]

I meant to say that Tai Chi does not need a lot of mental effort - must sort out my mental efforts