Appeals to Many

Ai Chi aquatic therapy is essentially Tai Chi, a land-based Chinese martial art consisting of very slow, controlled sequences of movements, adapted to water. Ai Chi is done in shoulder-deep warm water – the JCC’s therapy pool is 89°F – using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad, controlled movements of the arms, legs, and torso.

Although Ai Chi is for adults of all ages, those looking to build flexibility or increase relaxation appear to be the ones who attend most often:

• Men and women who want to maintain balance.
• Those recovering from an injury.

What to Expect from Ai Chi Exercise

Movements will be slow, gentle, controlled, and repetitive, focusing on tranquility rather than precision and rigidity. Classes usually last one hour.

Ai Chi Movements (Katas)

There are up to 19 postures, or movements, in an Ai Chi aquatic therapy class, each one being a slight variation of the one before, gradually increasing in difficulty. There is no need to perform all movements.

The first steps of Ai Chi are done while standing in a core posture. Movements are broad and the water adds resistance for an additional challenge.

Aquatics Are Central at the J

Learning to swim and aquatics are deeply rooted in Jewish values and culture. The JCC serves Jewish and non-Jewish audiences alike, as learning to swim is a universal value. Our aquatics program is integral to our community center, and we have built and maintained indoor, outdoor, competition-sized, and therapeutic pools. Our love of aquatics starts early with parent/child classes, continues with lessons for adults, and we also offer arthritis and therapy classes for those well into their 90s.