If you have knee involvement, you may need to adapt those movements to be safe and comfortable. Be cautious when you have a flare or sore joint. Many experts say you can still exercise, but carefully. Check with your doctor if you aren't sure, and stop if it makes you hurt more or if you feel pain two hours after the class. Never push or exert yourself.
Most teachers believe the meditative effects of qi are as important as the physical exercise.
The practice can take as few as five minutes or can last as long as an hour per session. Remember that while tai chi is a good adjunct exercise, it doesn't provide much in aerobic or weight-bearing benefits. Judith Horstman is a contributing editor to Arthritis Today and author of The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Alternative Therapies. The information provided by the Arthritis Foundation should not take the place of advice and guidance from your own health-care providers. Be sure to check with your doctor about changes in your treatment plan.