The Effect of Tai Chi on Dynamic Balance in Younger Adults: Implication for Physical Therapy Practice

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of Tai Chi on the dynamic balance in younger, active community-based adults with no history of lower extremity injury or balance problems. Methods: Fourteen subjects (4 males / 10 females; age 23.6 + 6.2 years-old; height 166.5 ± 11.1 cm; weight 75.9 ± 19.3 kg) completed a 13-week undergraduate Tai Chi course. Dynamic balance was assessed at the beginning and the end of the course using the Y-Balance test. Results: Post-hoc testing showed significant improvements in anterior (P=0.007) and posterior lateral (P=0.003) reach distances with a Cohen’s d at 0.54 and 0.71 for the anterior and posterior lateral, respectively with significant improvement in right composite compared to left composite (P<0.0001). Cohen’s d was 0.51 and 1.38 for the left and right composite score, respectively. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Tai Chi may be useful as an exercise regimen to increase anterior and posterior lateral dynamic balance in balance-dependent activity as measured by the Y Balance Test. The authors champion that Tai Chi may be a useful addition for a physical therapy treatment plan, preventative exercise plan, or wellness program to increase anterior and posterior lateral dynamic balance.