Benefits of an 8-form Tai Chi Training Exercise on Balance Performance, Falling Risk, and Muscle Strengths in Elderly with Limited Strength: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of an 8-form Tai Chi training exercise on balance performance, falling risk, and muscle strengths in elderly with limited strength. Twenty-six females between 70-85 years old with balance problem and moderate lower extremity muscular strengths (grade 2+ to 3+) without prior Tai Chi training volunteered for the study. The participants underwent the 8-form Tai Chi training exercise for 45 minutes/session, 3 sessions a week for 12 weeks. Balance performance (m-CTSIB, Postural Stability Balance Test, and 8-foot up-and-go Test), falling risk (Fall Risk Overall Stability Test and Fear of Falling Assessment), and muscle strengths (30-second Chair Stand Test and Pressure Biofeedback Unit Test) were assessed during pretest, mid-test, and post-test. One-way repeated measures ANOVA was conducted at the significant level of 0.05. The results after 6 weeks of training showed that balance and falling risk were improved where 8 foot up-and-go test and fear of falling assessment were significantly better than pre-experiment, while after 12 weeks, balance, falling risk, and lower extremity muscular strengths were significantly improved when compared to the pre-experiment. The 12-week 8-form Tai Chi training exercise was safe and effective in improving balance, falling risk, and lower extremity muscular strengths in ageing people with limited strengths.