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TUCSON - University of Arizona researchers are using Tai Chi to help stroke victims recover.

When George Brookbank had a stroke he was eager to get back to his normal self. "I felt absolutely useless and somebody recommended that I would be able to control my movements better if I did Tai Chi," said Brookbank.

He took that advice and enrolled in a research study through the University.

"A lot of them have seen improvements in their balance in their strength in their walking speed. Also their mood is better and some of them will even talk to you about how they can think better," said Assistant Professor Dr. Ruth Taylor-Piliea.

It is a 12 week class that meets three times a week for an hour. The idea is that the student thinks about each move, connecting the brain to the physical movement.

"You're engaging your brain and you're challenging it do something," said Taylor-Piliea.

"It's more than just waiving around and not falling over. Although I feel inclined to do that from time to time," said Brookbank.

Taylor-Piliea said the connections between the students have also helped in the recovery process.

"If people don't feel like they are alone and there are people who have gone through the same thing they have and then they feel a sense of camaraderie and encouragement and support," said Taylor-Piliea.

"I come away at the end of each class a little more optimistic," said Brookbank.

By the time the research is completed it will be 2012 and Taylor-Piliea will have studied 150 stroke victims.