BROOKINGS — As part of its commitment to empowering older adults, South Dakota State University Extension is launching two new physical activity programs during Falls Prevention Awareness Week.

Enhance Fitness and Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention will join SDSU Extension’s existing physical activity program, Walk with Ease. As part of a national outreach campaign, SDSU Extension is partnering with the National Council on Aging and the South Dakota Fall Prevention Coalition to mark Falls Prevention Awareness Week from Sept. 23 through Sept. 27.

Classes will be posted online once available. For more information, visit extension.sdstate.edu and select “physical activity” from the wellness tab. Those interested in becoming an instructor can contact Whitney Keller-Reetz, SDSU Extension health and community field specialist.

Enhance Fitness is an evidence-based group exercise and falls prevention program that helps older adults of all fitness levels become more active, energized and empowered using a continuous model with regular fitness checks to track progress.

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention is a beginner-level introduction to the ancient practice of Tai Chi that aims to improve health through slow, gentle, intentional movements. The benefits include pain relief, improved balance, reduced fall risk, improved muscle strength and flexibility, and improved mood.

Falls are one of the greatest causes of serious injuries and death for people over age 65, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older adults can reduce their risk through regular physical activity.

“SDSU Extension is very excited to launch Enhance Fitness and Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention to the physical activity program offerings with the goal of reducing falls and improving the overall health and well-being of many South Dakotans” said Michelle Tjeerdsma, SDSU Extension Family, Food and Wellness program director.

For more information, contact Keller-Reetz at 605-882-5140 or whitney.reetz@sdstate.edu; or Leacey Brown, SDSU Extension gerontology field specialist, at 605-394-1722.