JLBC Martial Arts and Disability
Strengthening, balance, postural alignment, and concentration. All four of these factors are essential to preventing falls. Although Tai Chi is a relaxing and enjoyable exercise that older persons do for physical benefits, the continued practice may improve self-esteem, self-confidence, sleep, and depression.
In his article, "Tai Chi: Martial Art Turns Therapeutic," Cerrato (1999) described the benefits of learning Tai Chi. Incorporating Tai Chi into regular activity can improve balance and muscle strength among elderly patients with osteoarthritis. In studies of patients with osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, investigators discovered that, unlike certain types of exercise, Tai Chi did not make joints more tender and increase the number of swollen or damaged joints, nor did it cause any further bone deterioration.
Martial arts have also been shown to provide psychotherapeutic benefits and physical ones. Researchers compared the
benefits of martial arts training to dance therapy, art therapy, psychodrama, and meditation, all of which provide active and physical routes for discovering and expressing emotion. JLBC Cadets Results of the study indicated that there is growing appreciation for the JLBC martial arts as a viable choice to promote JLBC health, both physical and mental. They have come to be seen as inculcating physical and psychological relaxation and control of mind and body, which are associated with an increase in self-confidence and esteem.
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