Health & Wellbeing

Tai Chi

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Brisbane Racing Club had the pleasure of playing host to Tai Chi classes run by the Australian Academy of Tai Chi and Qigong at Eagle Farm Racecourse.

Combining a series of slow and focused movements and deep breath work, Tai Chi is an internal martial art practice known for its health benefits and meditative qualities.

In recent years, over 500 medical studies have shown that playing Tai Chi and Qigong improves muscular strength, flexibility and fitness; as well as improved relaxation, balance, immunity and numerous other health benefits. In fact, during the Covid-19 lockdown doctors in Chinese hospitals have practiced Tai Chi with patients to help increase their resilience to the disease.

While physical classes aren’t currently possible, the Queensland branch of the Australian Academy of Tai Chi and Qigong are offering BRC members free access to their online classes. For access, please email jemcgaw@iprimus.com.au and mention you are a BRC Member to be emailed for access to these private videos.

For an idea of what classes entail please view the following videos, which include some exercises focusing on lung integrity and immune strength:

For more information about Tai Chi or Qigong, or more detail on classes once restrictions ease please visit www.livingchi.com.au.

 

Heart Fit

HeartFIT is a mobile, Mature Age Fitness Program, with the major focus being on aging strongly, both physically and mentally, and challenges the way we think about aging. The program will help you to not only maintain but improve quality of life, and give you the tools to live life to the full. 

Prior to the Covid-19 restrictions resulting in the cancellation of group exercise programs, Eagle Farm Racecourse played home to a weekly HeartFIT session, just one of 15 locations in and around Brisbane each week, serving over 400 participants. 

HeartFIT has become a strong community of like-mined people. Their exercise sessions are the foundation, but there is a strong social and friendship element within groups, too. Set to great music, the focus is on fun and enjoyment while working out. 

HeartFIT’s gentle to moderate exercise program is designed for everyone to maintain or regain a strong, healthy body and mind through exercise, combined with good lifestyle choices. The program focuses on:
Strength conditioning – to increase muscle mass and bone density
Heart Health – cardio exercise for fitness & prevention of chronic diseases
Balance & Flexibility – improving mobility and quality of life
Co-ordination & falls prevention – remaining strong and confident at home and out socially

While restrictions currently mean you can’t join classes live on course, HeartFIT has transitioned their program to the online platform of Zoom, with over 250 people now moving from the comfort and safety of their own homes. 

As an offer to BRC Members, HeartFIT are offering a very special deal of 5 live session options every week for just $10 with a 1 week FREE trail to give you a taste of what they have to offer! All you require is a smart phone, tablet or computer to join in.

To access this special offer, simply visit heartfit.net and enter your name and email address in the space indicated. One of the friendly HeartFIT team will be in touch to get you started.