Tai Chi for Cardio and Pulmonary Health

Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are the leading cause of disease burden in Australia and around the world. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) alone accounts for nearly one third of global deaths. There is compelling research evidence that practice of Tai Chi can significantly improve cardiovascular and respiratory health. 14 randomized control trials conducted around the world demonstrated that Tai Chi significantly improved  cardiac  function,  coronary  risk profile and quality of life (QOL). It also improved heart  rate and  heart  rate  response, blood  pressure, baroreflex sensitivity and peak oxygen uptake, left ventricular ejection fraction, enhanced 6MWD (six-minute walking distance) and increased CRQ total score (Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire).

Based on the compelling research evidence, informed by exercise science and guided by exercise prescription principles and safety guidelines, ©the Tai Chi for Cardiopulmonary Health Program, also known as Tai Chi for Cardio and Respiratory Health, is a safe and targeted Tai Chi intervention program for reducing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and improving cardiovascular and respiratory health and fitness and the quality of life.

A recent clinical trial conducted in Australia has showed that 12 week practice of ©the Tai Chi for Cardiopulmonary Health Program has significantly improved the cardiopulmonary patients’ life schema on SIWB. SIWB index is widely used in studies of chronic illness, aging, and palliative care to measure health-related quality of life and wellbeing. The results of the study also showed a trend for reduction in depressive symptoms in cardiopulmonary patients. Improvement in the patients’ lower limb strength and balance has also been reported. The study has reported that throughout the trial, there have been no adverse events reported.