Things to keep in mind when evaluating research done on tai chi

An open mind is needed when evaluating reserach results on tai chi (TC). If the proof is in the pudding then millions of people around the world would readily vouch for TC’s contribution to their improved health and well being.

TC's popularity as part of a long term plan to live a long and healthy life is growing and this is happening without TC turning into the latest get fit craze that will disappear in time. Although TC has been practised for hundreds of years, it has not remained static but has gently evolved to meet the changing lifestyles and health needs of its players.

Shorter or modified forms have been developed to suit modern busy lifestyles. Forms like the popular Beijing 24 have been carefully constructed by TC Masters to retain the integrity and health benefits of the art.

Competition routines have been developed that allow a competitor to show a high level of skill and athleticism. However these same routines can be learned and performed beautifully by regular TC practitioners.

People at all ages and levels of fitness have found that by practicing TC they have been rewarded with a myriad of mental and physical health benefits.

A great deal of research has been done to investigate, compare and quantify the benefits of tai chi. Almost every month a new study on the effects of TC is started.

It may seem straight forward to set up a study in which whatever is to be tested, for instance, measuring blood pressure before and after a period of TC classes. However when we read research reports we need to bear in mind that TC can’t be easily quantified like a medication, as there are so many factors involved, such as:

The health benefits of TC take time to develop. Reducing stress for instance for some people doesn’t happen until they feel confident doing the routine but in the meantime they have probably noticed increased balance, strength and flexibility.

Although scientifically based studies are important, perhaps more important for us as individuals is to try to remember or even better record how our bodies felt when we began taking TC classes noting things like aches and pains, our balance, our ability to move freely etc. Then a year down the track, we should look back and note our progress.

However, research has been carried out which indicate the effectiveness of tai chi as a health and fitness practice.

For those who would like to know more about studies that have been conducted, the following websites offer more details:

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine nccam.nil.gov/health/taichi

British Journal of Sports Medicine http.//bjsm.bmj.com

Research Australia www.researchaustralia.com.au

Melbourne University National Aging Research Institute www.mednwh.unimelb.edu.au

Springer Science -Business Media www.springer.link.com

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