From a recent article in Wall Street Journal (October 9, 2007: “Senior Play: The Graying of Sports Medicine”)

“As the body ages, muscles become slower and weaker, most significantly affecting speed, balance and the ability to recover from injuries. Researchers and doctors say to compensate for these changes, older athletes should focus more on balance and flexibility, in addition to pure strength and cardiovascular training.

“Balance…is emerging as an important element for older people, according to doctors, researchers…Older muscles are smaller and slower and respond less efficiently when we need to brace ourselves, making us more vulnerable to falls, says Marjorie Woollacott, director of the Motor Control Lab at the University of Oregon’s Department of Human Physiology in Eugene.

“Practicing tai chi, a form of martial art, helps both healthy and frail individuals improve balance, according to several studies, including a recent randomized controlled trial published in the August issue of the Journal of the American Geriatric society.”