Tai Chi is an excellent form of exercise for both body and mind. It’s a low-impact, meditative, slow-motion series of movements that can help maintain strength, flexibility and balance – a wonderful practice for all ages.
There’s a growing body of evidence that Tai Chi has value in treating and preventing many health problems. One recent study in China, published in JAMA Network Open, showed that among patients with prehypertension, Tai Chi was more effective than aerobic exercise in reducing blood pressure after 12 months.
There is also strong to moderate evidence that tai chi can benefit the following:
- Preventing falls in older adults
- Osteoarthritis
- Parkinson’s disease
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Cognitive function
- Depression
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Dementia
While Tai Chi is considered to be a very safe form of exercise, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before starting Tai Chi if you have a limiting musculoskeletal problem or other medical condition.
Sources
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-of-tai-chi
https://www.uhhospitals.org/blog/articles/2024/04/the-benefits-of-tai-chi-for-heart-health
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2814872