On our cover this month is a photograph of the type of physical activity that's possible for almost everyone-healthy or chronically ill, young or old. It's the Chinese martial art of Tai Chi, as practiced by a group of women in New York's Chinatown. No gym membership or expensive equipment is needed-only your body and 30 to 60 minutes of your time. This centuries-old Chinese practice stresses agility, balance, and coordination. Sometimes called "Chinese shadow boxing," Tai Chi is a combination of graceful movements in slow motion, each flowing into the next. It has been shown to improve balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, reduce stress and improve mental health, and reduce the risk of falls in the elderly and in those recovering from chronic stroke.
The benefits of physical activity in establishing and maintaining health and well-being are innumerable and well-known. This month's CE article, "Interventions to Promote Physical Activity in Chronically Ill Adults," identifies the most effective strategies used to promote physical activity in this population, and in doing so highlights the essential role of exercise for everyone.-Alison Bulman, senior editorial coordinator