The effects of group aerobic exercise and tai chi on functional outcomes and quality of life for persons living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

METHODS: This was a randomized clinical trial investigating the effects of tai chi (TC) and aerobic exercise (EX) on functional outcomes and quality of life (QOL) in patients with AIDS. Thirty-eight (38) subjects with advanced HIV (AIDS) were randomized to one of three groups: TC, EX, or control. Experimental groups exercised twice weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcomes included QOL as measured by the Medical Outcomes Short Form (MOS-HIV) and Spirituality Well-Being Scale (SWB). Functional measures included the functional reach (FR) for balance, sit and reach (SR) for flexibility, and sit-up (SU) test for endurance. The physical performance test (PPT) was used to determine overall function, and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to evaluate psychologic changes. To consider the patients\' explanations for these measurements, qualitative data were collected from subjects\' journals, focus groups, and observations. RESULTS: Significant changes occurred in the exercise groups in overall functional measures on the subscale of overall health and on the POMS confusion-bewilderment and tension-anxiety scales.