If you have arthritis or are simply looking for a joint-safe way to get moving, please consider the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP) or the Tai Chi for Arthritis program. These two programs are being offered through the UT TSU Extension Office with Hilda Lytle serving as the instructor. Programs are open to all eligible persons without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, genetic information veteran status and parental status. Both programs will be held in the Early Voting Room at the Warren County Administrative Building.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
Developed by physical therapists specifically for people with arthritis, AFEP is a low-impact, joint-safe exercise program that’s been documented to help increase joint flexibility and range of motion and to help maintain muscle strength. It may also improve balance and coordination.
Participants will go through a series of gentle movements and activities designed to increase mobility and range of motion. The exercises are designed to work all joints in the body in a slow and gentle manner. In addition, health information, joint checks, cool downs and relaxation techniques will be provided.
The arthritis exercise program classes are free and are scheduled for most Tuesdays & Fridays. The tentative dates are: July 11, 18, 21, 25, Aug. 4, 8, 11, 18, 22, 25, 29 and Sept. 1, *7, 15, 22 & 26. (*Note; September 7 is a Thursday.) Participants should plan to attend all classes as possible.
Tai Chi for Arthritis – Level 1:
This joint-safe program is designed to help you manage the effects of arthritis through slow agile steps and exercises. The focus of the program will be to learn the basic forms of the sun style of Tai Chi to reduce pain and stiffness while improving balance & memory.
Created by Dr. Paul Lam with the help of a team of medical experts, Tai Chi increases heart and lung activity, aligns posture, improves balance and integrates the mind and body. Other benefits may include: improved ability to cope with stress & depression, memory, coordination, muscle strength & stamina, and body awareness. Studies have shown that people with arthritis who have completed the class have experienced less pain and stiffness, tend to exercise and relax more and have more overall knowledge of their condition.
Sessions will be held at 3:30 p.m. on most Tuesdays and Thursdays in July & August. The fee is $48 for all ten (1-hour) sessions. Tentative dates are: July 18, 20, 25, 27, and August 8, 10, *14, 17, 22, & 29. (*Note: Aug. 14 is a Monday.) Participants should plan to attend all ten sessions to receive the most benefit from the program.
Please call the UT-TSU Warren County Extension Office at 473-8484 or email Hilda Lytle at hlytle@utk.edu to register for one or both of these exercise programs by July 7, 2023. Payment for Tai Chi class is needed by the first day of class. Class size is limited, so register as soon as possible.
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