Some people may not believe that Qigong or Tai Chi are good for your heart. They feel you are moving too slow to get enough of a workout. In all reality, Qigong and Tai Chi are supported by the American Heart Association and the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation as safe and effective exercises for preventing heart disease and also as part of a cardiac rehabilitation program.
● Qigong/Tai Chi have been measured at a 4.1 MET, more than walking 3.4 mph or 5.5 km/hr (3.6 MET’s); just over riding a bike for 10 mph or 16 km/hr (leisurely pace)
● They are both slow, gentle exercises and easier on the joints compared to traditional aerobic activities;
● They involve the entire body, unlike riding a bike or treadmill- promotes whole body flexibility and circulation
● Move in all directions instead of straight planes
● Include stress,anxiety, and depression reduction; improves mood
● Improves breathing efficiency so your heart does not have to work as hard
● Includes social support and motivation- others may share similar experiences
● Studies also show that Qigong /Tai Chi are equivalent to Phase II cardiac Rehab Programs; these programs help you transition from hospital to home after things like a heart attack, open heart surgery, heart transplant or congestive heart failure
Copyright 2020