Fitness
Tai Chi Martial Art: This Chinese workout is better than most exercises, says study | – Times of India
Yes, you read that right! Tai Chi, the graceful martial art known for its slow, deliberate movements, has emerged as a surprising contender in the world of fitness and cardiovascular health. Here are some details to uncover why this ancient practice might just be the key to better heart health.
What does the study says?
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In a clinical trial published in JAMA Network Open, researchers observed the effects of Tai Chi versus moderate aerobic exercise on blood pressure levels. The study involved 342 individuals aged 18 to 65 with prehypertension, a condition characterised by slightly elevated blood pressure. Throughout the trial, which spanned from late July 2019 to mid-January 2022, participants were closely monitored to evaluate the impact of their respective exercise regimens.
The participants were divided into two groups: one group engaged in traditional aerobic exercises such as brisk walking and stair climbing, while the other group immersed themselves in the graceful movements of Tai Chi. After a year of consistent practice, the Tai Chi practitioners demonstrated a remarkable reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to their aerobic counterparts. On average, the Tai Chi group experienced a 7.01-point drop, surpassing the 4.61-point decrease observed in the aerobic exercise group.
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These findings shed light on the potential of Tai Chi as a therapeutic tool for managing prehypertension and promoting cardiovascular health. While both groups experienced improvements in blood pressure, the Tai Chi group exhibited a more significant decrease, hinting at the unique benefits of this ancient practice. The low-impact nature of Tai Chi makes it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional exercise routines.
For overall health in a world overrun with high-intensity workouts and fitness enthusiasts, Tai Chi is a gentle art. Tai Chi has established itself as a strong competitor in the fitness industry thanks to its demonstrated capacity to reduce blood pressure and improve general well-being. So why not accept the elegance and serenity of this age-old practice?