Tai Chi Medical

Physiological effects of Tai Chi

Tao — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:30:47 +0000

The Question: What is the exercise intensity of Tai Chi? The Answer: Tai Chi can be classified as a moderate intensity exercise with a maximal oxygen intake (VO2 max) of 55%. The Study: Tai chi: physiological characteristics and beneficial effects on health. A review of 31 studies with a total of 2216 men and women. [...]

Single Whip in Tai Chi Chuan

Tao — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:10:48 +0000

The Single Whip is a posture found in many forms of Tai Chi Chuan. (See Wikipedia). The stance and position of the arms will vary in the different forms of Tai Chi. There are also martial arts applications for fighting and self defense. Some example videos: Tai Chi Movements : Single Whip Tai Chi Movement [...]

Tai Chi in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Tao — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 12:50:18 +0000

The Question: Can eight weeks of Tai Chi help patients with rheumatoid arthritis? The Answer: Not according to this pilot study but most preferred Tai Chi compared to physiotherapy. The Study: No improvement in a pilot study of tai chi exercise in rheumatoid arthritis. Fifteen women with rheumatoid arthritis aged 40 to 70 years participated [...]

Tai Chi and Falls in the Elderly

Tao — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:01:26 +0000

The Question: Can 13 weeks of Tai Chi prevent falls in the elderly over a period of 12 months? The Answer: After 12 months, the risk of falls was not lower in the Tai Chi group. The Study: Lack of effect of Tai Chi Chuan in preventing falls in elderly people living at home: a [...]

Tai Chi and Aerobic Capacity

Tao — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 11:48:00 +0000

The Question: Is the intensity of Tai Chi exercise sufficient to increase aerobic capacity? The Answer: Tai Chi may increase aerobic capacity in subjects who were initially sedentary. However, randomized clinical trials have not shown that Tai Chi is an effective way to increase aerobic capacity. The Reviews: The Effectiveness of Tai Chi Exercise in [...]