Our Story
Lighthouse Aqua Tai Chi ® is a copyrighted programme created by professional tai chi and aqua exercise instructors David Pelling and Helena Kean.
The programme was initiated after working with seated tai chi classes for falls prevention and realizing that the sessions were not as effective as aqua based classes. It was also observed in general aqua mobility classes, that some people were not fully participating. After 2 years of further development and personal research, Lighthouse Aqua Tai Chi ® was offered a trial by Clive Escreet and Pendle Leisure Trust. There are currently three successful weekly classes for Bury Leisure, Whitworth Leisure and Pendle Leisure as a result.
Aqua exercise has a reduced risk of injury, due to the nature of the medium and Tai Chi is a slow, mindful and relaxed exercise, further reducing the potential for injury whilst participating in the class. It provides cardiovascular training by gently increasing the pulse and breathing rate. It also strengthens and tones muscles, as the resistance of the water allows opposing muscle groups to be worked in each movement: water is 12 times more resistant than air.
Helena and David have observed beneficial outcomes for people with a variety of conditions, including: knee & hip problems and joint replacement, back injuries, poor balance and falling, head injuries and recovery from RTAs, MS, Parkinsons, obesity, depression and insomnia. Some gains have been considerable and some have been marginal and incremental within an extensive care and rehabilitation programme; all have improved the quality of life and sense of well-being for those taking part.
Helena and David are members of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain, with many years experience of instructing exercise, martial arts and tai chi.
We do not allow spectators at our session because: vulnerable adults may be participating, people do not relax if they are being observed and to protect our copyright.
