Physiologial benefits of 24-style Taijiquan exercise in middle-aged women

METHODS: This study examined the physiological benefits of Tai Chi exercises by comparing heart rate (HR), respiratory rate(RR), exercise intensity, electroencephalograph, surface electromyography and surface thermograph, as well as the results of physical fitness test in 20 middle-aged women (10 skilled participants and 10 novices). RESULTS: The data from the skilled participants showed greater values in sit-ups, side step and stand trunk flexion, moreover, the statistic data demonstrated not only greater HR or lower RR during exercise, but also higher beta%-power during the experiment, higher alpha%-power in the eye-closed period and central alpha dominant after exercise. These results suggest that Tai Chi is effective for psychological relaxation and mental concentration.