Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art form, which evolved from being about combat and defence to a type of exercise that works holistically. Characterised by gentle sweeping movements and deep breathing to harness the Qi or “life force”, tai chi is excellent for the body and mind.  

Wheelchair Tai Chi was introduced in China in 2005 and has now grown to become a reliable, scientifically studied exercise form to enhance physical and mental well-being. One of the most effective and widely practiced mind and body exercise regimens globally, tai chi was adapted for wheelchair users and for people with mobility issues by Dr. Zibin Guo, tai chi master and medical anthropologist at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He developed 13 postures of Wheelchair Tai Chi, which are widely practised today in many clinics and rehabilitation centres worldwide. 

According to a statement by the university, Dr. Guo realised that not all movements in traditional Tai Chi would be suited for people with mobility or ambulatory impairment because they have martial arts applications. He thus selected 13 postures according to five criteria — moves suited for people with ambulatory impairment; moves that allow a large range of lower back/hip motion; moves that help promote upper body mobility and internal circulation; moves that combine both vertical and horizontal circles that improve and stimulate the rotation and range of the torso, waist, lower back, shoulders, arms, and wrists to give the practitioner also a sense of expandable space; and moves that help increase a sense of empowerment.

Movements in Tai Chi are dynamic, symmetrical and flowing, where the need is to uninterruptedly move in a constant gentle flow while breathing deeply to create a unified circle or connection of energy. In Dr. Guo’s programme, the wheelchair has been integrated into the postures or movements, leveraging its rolling and swivel functions to maximise benefit. In conjunction with calming music, the practice of these movements can yield positive physical and mental effects on people with mobility impairments. 

For older adults with limited mobility and people with spinal cord injury, the Wheelchair Tai Chi Ball exercise regimen also exists where mind-body exercise is combined with strength training to better neuromuscular function. Positive effects have been seen in many aspects such as reaction time, range of motion at the shoulder and trunk, static and dynamic sitting balance and handgrip strength, among others. 

Wheelchair tai chi exercises are thus safe, reliable and useful for people with limited mobility. For a primer, head to YouTube where several tai chi masters provide online demonstrations of wheelchair or adaptive tai chi.