Well-being/fitness/physical functioning/breathing in the elderly
Several studies suggest that tai chi may improve heart and lung fitness, muscle strength, handgrip strength, flexibility, gait, coordination, and sleep and may decrease the risk of osteoporosis. It is not clear if these benefits are different from other forms of exercise. Nearly all of the studies that exist in these areas compare tai chi programs with a sedentary lifestyle, not with another form of exercise. Tai chi has been found to be of low to moderate intensity in the cardiovascular studies thus far, which makes tai chi a candidate for certain rehabilitation programs. Additional research is needed before a recommendation can be made.
DR. BENJAMIN KLIGLER: I have recommended it to people who are experiencing a health problem because they don't have an effective way of dealing with stress in their lives. It could be focused around a symptom, so it could be someone who has a headache problem or a reflux problem with stomach acid or one of the many other problems that are related to a high level of stress. I think it's a way to learn how to relax and concentrate intensely at the same time while actually using your body. There are many people who, if I recommend that they go home and listen to a relaxing tape or do meditation, they're not going to do it. There are people who want a physical basis for the relaxation practice.
There are studies that look at what percentage of patients who come to the average primary care doctor are actually there because of a stress-related complaint. Many times it's in the form of a physical symptom, whether it's headache or lousy digestion or pain of some other sort or poor sleep. It always comes as a symptom, but a huge number -- I would say 60%, 70% -- of what you see in the average adult medicine practice are complaints that are in one form or another linked to stress level.
WILLIAM KAPLINIDIS: There have been studies that show that tai chi helps the elderly with balance problems and osteoporosis prevention. Because of the relaxation aspect, it can help with stress-related problems like high blood pressure and also, because it's low-impact, it can help "lubricate" your joints and strengthen your body in a way that's not as harmful as maybe running or some high-impact exercises.