Differences in functional fitness and adherence between Chinese and non-Chinese older adults participating in a Tai Chi intervention

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of the current study was to examine adherence levels and changes in functional fitness among older Canadian adults of Chinese and non-Chinese origin living in areas of low socioeconomic status in response to a free tai chi program. Study Design: This was a 16-week Tai Chi intervention study. Functional fitness (strength, endurance, and flexibility) data was collected pre- and post-intervention for Chinese participants and non-Chinese participants. Yang-style Tai Chi was taught and participants were advised to attend two, one-hour sessions per week. Results: Non-Chinese participants had significant improvements in strength and flexibility as measured by combined handgrip and sit-and-reach tests. This was not observed in the Chinese group. Multivariate regression analysis showed that Chinese participants had greater improvements over non-Chinese participants in functional fitness measures of endurance (arm curls, chair stands and up-and-go tests). No significant differences in strength and flexibility tests were observed between Chinese and non-Chinese participants. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in the overall average weekly attendance for the Chinese versus non-Chinese group (1.1±1.2 classes and 1.0±0.8 classes respectively). Conclusion: Overall, 16-weeks of Tai Chi led to significant improvements in functional fitness in both groups. Chinese participants had greater improvements in muscular endurance compared to non-Chinese participants despite similar attendance in both groups. Given the affordability, adherence levels and observed health benefits, it seems that Tai Chi is an optimal mode of physical activity for culturally diverse older adults.

Acknowledgments: Project was funded by Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and Sport Participation Research Initiative