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Review
. 2016 May:23:59-63.
doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.03.007. Epub 2016 Mar 25.

Effects of Tai Chi exercise on heart rate variability

Affiliations
Review

Effects of Tai Chi exercise on heart rate variability

Aimee R Cole et al. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 May.

Abstract

Tai Chi is a callisthenic exercise form that incorporates aerobic exercise with diaphragmatic breathing. These two aspects alone have been shown to enhance the heart rate variability, warranting research into the effects of Tai Chi on autonomic nervous system modulation and heart rate variability. A low heart rate variability has been shown to be indicative of compromised health. Any methods to enhance the heart rate variability, in particular, non-pharmacological methods, are therefore seen as beneficial to health and are sought after. The aim of this review was to comprehensively summarize the currently published studies regarding the effects of Tai Chi on heart rate variability. Both consistent and inconsistent findings are presented and discussed, and an overall conclusion attained which could benefit future clinical studies.

Keywords: Autonomic nervous system; Heart; Heart rate variability; Holter monitoring; Physical activity; Tai Chi.

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