Comparing Tai Chi, Baduanjin, square dance, and Latin dance for cognitive and physical benefits in older adults: a randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effects of four structured exercise interventions-Tai Chi, Baduanjin, square dance, and Latin dance-on cognitive function, physical health, body composition, and psychosocial outcomes in older adults.

Methods: A 12-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with 150 older adults aged 60 to 80 years (mean age: 69.7 ± 5.8 years; 62.7% female). Participants were assigned to one of five groups: Tai Chi, Baduanjin, square dance, Latin dance, or a health education control group. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA), upper limb strength (30-s arm curl test), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), balance (single-leg standing time), agility (2.4-m agility test), body fat percentage, and waist-to-hip ratio. Additionally, social interaction and psychological well-being were measured through standardized scales.

Results: Significant improvements in cognitive function were observed in the square dance and Tai Chi groups (MoCA score increases of 4.2 and 3.7 points, respectively; p < 0.05). Square dance also led to notable improvements in grip strength (p < 0.01) and aerobic endurance (p < 0.05), while Latin dance showed the greatest benefits in flexibility and body fat percentage reduction. Psychological well-being improved across all intervention groups compared to the control group (p < 0.05), suggesting a broader impact on mental health and social engagement.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that structured physical activity interventions significantly enhance cognitive and physical health in older adults, with variations in effectiveness based on exercise type. Furthermore, the inclusion of social components in certain activities, such as square dance, may amplify cognitive benefits through increased engagement and reduced social isolation.