A kinematic and metabolic analysis of the first Lu of Tai Chi in experts and beginners

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare movement kinematics, cocontraction times, and metabolic data in expert and nonexpert Tai Chi practitioners. Significant differences were observed for all kinematic parameters: experts moved smoothly (lower jerk) and with a lower frequency. No differences in metabolic and electromyography data were observed but for the breathing pattern (experts breathed slowly and deeply). Movement frequency and breathing pattern are thus the main features that distinguish expert and nonexpert practitioners.

Can Tai Chi and Qigong Postures Shape Our Mood? Toward an Embodied Cognition Framework for Mind-Body Research

“…Of specific relevance to mind-body practices, some of the key features of posture and movement associated with improved mood that we identified in our literature review are principles typically emphasized in TCQ training. Some of these features, such as balanced muscular tone during static and dynamic activities (Forrest, 1997 ; Wolf et al, 1997 ; Gatts, 2008 ; Cho, 2014 ; Zorzi et al, 2015 ) and steadier gait dynamics (Manor et al, 2014 ; Wayne et al, 2015 ), have been objectively documented in a handful of TCQ studies. Many other features associated with improved mood, such as upright vs. slumped torso, minimized neck flexion, smooth vs. sharp movement rhythms, relaxed arm swings during weight shifting and gait, and soft facial expressions (e.g., relaxed jaw, soft eye gaze), have not been objectively measured, but are emphasized in training manuals (Lo et al, 1979 ; Wile, 1996 ; Wayne and Fuerst, 2013 ).…”

Can Tai Chi and Qigong Postures Shape Our Mood? Toward an Embodied Cognition Framework for Mind-Body Research

“…Of specific relevance to mind-body practices, some of the key features of posture and movement associated with improved mood that we identified in our literature review are principles typically emphasized in TCQ training. Some of these features, such as balanced muscular tone during static and dynamic activities (Forrest, 1997;Wolf et al, 1997;Gatts, 2008;Cho, 2014;Zorzi et al, 2015) and steadier gait dynamics (Manor et al, 2014;Wayne et al, 2015), have been objectively documented in a handful of TCQ studies. Many other features associated with improved mood, such as upright vs. slumped torso, minimized neck flexion, smooth vs. sharp movement rhythms, relaxed arm swings during weight shifting and gait, and soft facial expressions (e.g., relaxed jaw, soft eye gaze), have not been objectively measured, but are emphasized in training manuals (Lo et al, 1979;Wile, 1996;Wayne and Fuerst, 2013).…”

Surface electromyography in ballistic movement: a comparative methodological analysis from taekwondo athletes (Electromiografía de superficie en movimientos balísticos: un análisis metodológico comparativo en atletas de taekwondo)

“…Meanwhile, Rinaldi et al (2018) studied the Junzuki karate punch using a cut off frequency of 10 [Hz]. Tsai et al (2017) analyzed in kendo the Hiki Waza, using cut-off frequencies of 6 [Hz], while Zorzi et al (2015) reported in Tai Chi practitioners during the First Lu, the use of cut-off frequencies of 4 [Hz]. Conversely, the signal's root mean square (RMS) is often calculated with different window width parameters in combat sports as a measure of wave softening.…”