Tai chi practice in the workplace improves functional fitness

Tai chi practice in the workplace can improve functional fitness and feelings of well-being, according to a study published in Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment and Rehabilitation. Researchers from York University, Toronto, studied the effects of a workplace tai chi program on physical fitness and well-being among female university employees who used computers. Fifty-two subjects participated in two 50-minute tai chi classes per week for 12 weeks. Pre- and post-program fitness assessments included resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, body composition, musculoskeletal fitness and back fitness. Researchers also assessed baseline and post-training psychological well-being using the Perceived Stress Scale.

Data analysis showed that tai chi class participants improved resting heart rate, waist circumference and hand grip strength, as well as psychological well-being. Click to learn how Chinese medicine treats Tinnitus.

Study authors recommended tai chi practice as an economic, effective and convenient workplace intervention. Research limitations included the small sample size, lack of randomization and lack of a control group.