Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Tai Chi (TC) and mental imagery (MI) on motor performance. MI is the ability of representing different types of images and it can be improved through constant practice (e.g., of TC). The majority of previous literature has mainly investigated the impact of this mental factor by means of qualitative indexes, whereas studies considering more rigorous measures such as kinematic parameters are rare. In this vein, little is known about how MI can affect reach-to-grasp, one of the most studied models in kinematic research. The present study attempts to fill that gap by investigating the relationship between MI and motor performance in TC, a practice that largely promotes the adoption of mental training. One TC master, four instructors, ten apprentices and fifteen untrained participants were requested to reach toward and grasp an object while mentally representing one out of five different images related to water with an increasing degree of dynamicity and expansion (i.e., still water, flowing water, wave, whirlpool, and opening water flower). Kinematic profiles of movements were recorded by means of six infra-red cameras using a 3-D motion analysis system. We tested whether: (i) focusing on MI during the task would help in optimizing motor efficiency, and (ii) expertise in TC would be reflected in higher flexibility during the task. The results indicate that kinematics is highly sensitive to MI and TC practice. In particular, our main finding suggests a statistically significant general improvement in motor efficiency for the TC group and a beneficial effect for all the participants when focusing on the most expansive image (i.e., opening water flower). Moreover, regression analysis indicates that MI and TC practice make online control more flexible in an experience-based way. These results have important implications for the use of mental imagery and TC in the retraining of motor function in people with physical disabilities.
Highlights
Tai Chi (TC) is a moving mind-body exercise characterized by circular, slow, and smooth movements that originated in China more than 1200 years ago (Li et al, 2001)
Post hoc comparisons showed that the TC group had significantly higher values with respect to Non-TC control group in Session A (t34.85 = −3.66; p = 0.037), B (t34.85 = −3.79; p = 0.026), and E (t34.85 = −3.82; p = 0.024)
The grasping component of the movement, was characterized by a gentler and later closing of the hand while approaching the object – in TC vs. No-TC group, as indicated by the Time and Amplitude of Maximum Grip Closing Velocity. This indicates that there was no need for extra time to correctly calibrate fingertip placement on the object. These results indicate that a combined training of TC and mental imagery (MI) can affect reach-to-grasp kinematics of daily movements performed dozens of times in our everyday life
Summary
Tai Chi (TC) is a moving mind-body exercise characterized by circular, slow, and smooth movements that originated in China more than 1200 years ago (Li et al, 2001). It is well-established that the slow tempo facilitates a sensory awareness of the speed, force, trajectory, and execution of movement throughout the practice (Tse and Bailey, 1992). A few Chinese Masters (e.g., Wang Zhuanghong, 1931–2008) have restored a classical TC practice that emphasizes mental imagery (MI) rather than motor repetition or aesthetical aspects In this respect, TC has more to offer than a simple relaxation technique. A deep investigation of its movement principles could furnish a new mind-body perspective able to highlight its impact on kinematic fluidity and to develop new interventions for improving motor control and (re)learning
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