Comparison of Functional Fitness Outcomes in Experienced and Inexperienced Older Adults After 16-week Tai Chi Program.

Abstract
Context • The positive effects of physical activity on the well-being of older adults have been well documented. Tai chi is a suitable form of physical activity, with known physical and psychological benefits for older adults. Objective • The objective of the current study was to compare the effects of participation in a 16-wk tai chi program on the functional fitness of older adults with and without previous tai chi experience. Design • The research team designed a prospective cohort study. Participants who had practiced tai chi previously for ≥1 y at baseline were classified as experienced; all others were considered inexperienced. Setting • The study took place at 2 community centers in 2 locations in the Greater Toronto area of Ontario, Canada. Participants • Participants were residents of the 2 communities. Intervention • Participants were instructed to attend two 1-h sessions of Yang-style tai chi per wk. Outcome Measures • Data on functional fitness- strength, endurance, speed, and flexibility-were collected at baseline and after completion of the tai chi program. Results • Of the 143 participants who completed the study, 20.5% were classified as experienced. Experienced participants had significantly higher ratings on functional fitness tests at baseline compared with the inexperienced group. At the end of the study, inexperienced participants had experienced significant improvements in all measures of functional fitness, although experienced participants had shown significant improvements only in measures of endurance and speed. Conclusion • Tai chi appears to be an optimal mode of physical activity for older adults regardless of previous experience with tai chi.
PMID: 24755567