Loading...
Tai chi is the slow-motion exercise sometimes called “meditation in motion.” Tai chi is popular for its dignified pace and low impact, but its claimed medical benefits have been difficult to pin down. In this assessor-blinded, three-way randomized trial, collaborating researchers from China, Hong Kong, and the U.S. compared regular tai chi practice, standard aerobic exercise, and usual care for reducing central obesity among adults older than 50. The 543 participants (all enrolled in Hong Kong) were mostly women, mean age was early 60s, mean body-mass index (BMI) was 25.6 kg/m2, and mean waist circumference was about 92 cm (36 inches). About half of participants had dyslipidemia or hypertension (although fewer than one third were taking med…