Tai Chi Influence on Cardiopulmonary Function in the Elderly

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiopulmonary function testing is a fundamental component of the physical examination and an elementary indicator for measuring physical fitness. With advancing age, the cardiopulmonary system will undergo a series of aging changes in morphology and function. Objective: Explore the effect of Tai Chi exercise on cardiopulmonary function in middle-aged and elderly people. Methods: A total of 73 50-75 years old from 5 areas in our city were recruited. A total of 63 healthy subjects were selected, 37 in the exercise group and 26 in the non-exercise group. The heart rate, lung capacity, and 6-min walking distance of each subject were measured in a calm state during the recovery time after walking 10 min after recovery. Results: In a calm state, Tai Chi practitioners had better lung capacity and a lower heart rate than non-practitioners (p0.05). In the immediate recovery time after walking, Tai Chi exercise elevated lung capacity more than non-exercisers (p0.01). Conclusion: Tai Chi exercise can improve the adaptability of cardiopulmonary function in middle-aged and elderly people after exercise. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Studies - Outcome Investigation.

Chinese expert consensus on prevention and intervention for elderly with sarcopenia (2023)

“…It is recommended to add traditional Chinese sports such as Tai Chi , which can effectively improve the balance control ability of the elderly. 40 , 41…”