Thursday, October 2, 2014

Improving dynamic balance with Tai Chi

There are a variety of ways to improve balance.  Using a BOSU is what I learned about during knee rehab a few years ago.  Even standing on one leg with eyes closed every so often makes a difference because it enhances what is called proprioception.  But that's a topic for another day.

Tai Chi is a great way to improve dynamic balance.  When doing Tai Chi, you are always moving.  What's different from western exercise routines is that the movement is slow and deliberate.  The slower the better sometimes.  Makes me think of the concept that when working on improving ski technique, being able to ski slowly and precisely on easy terrain is a way to ingrain skills that can then be used on harder terrain.

Lito Tejade-Flores learned to ski as an adult.  He went on to become an internationally known ski instructor.  I learned a lot from a couple of his well-known books.  In 2008 he wrote a blog entry that mentions how Tai Chi can really help someone's skiing.


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