Tai Chi Qigong as an Aerobic Exercise

There are many benefits in practicing Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi. Besides the obvious benefits, like the balance of Yin and Yang, increase overall qi level, clear blockages in the meridians, … etc., practicing Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi also has the benefits of aerobic exercise.

Aerobic exercise refers to exercise that involves or improves oxygen consumption by the body. Its benefits are widely known. For low intensity aerobic exercise (50%-65% of your maximum heart rate*), it can improve overall fitness, reduce stress, decrease body fat, blood pressure and cholesterol.

Slightly higher intensity aerobic exercise, (65%-80% of your maximum heart rate) is ideal for training your cardiovascular system and developing local muscle strength and increase stamina. Blood supply is increased through the new growth of blood vessels to the affected area. This provides more nutrients to the working muscles and helps take metabolic wastes from the muscles. With the increase in blood volume the cardiac muscle becomes larger, increasing the amount of blood pumped per heart beat. This means a lower heart rate at rest and more efficient recovery.

* Your Maximum Heart Rate (MHR) = 220 – Your Age

Our research has found that when performing the 1st Set Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi, the heart rate generally fall into the 50% to 70% range of your MHR, some call this range ‘The Healthy Heart Zone’ which is very good for weight control, decrease blood pressure and cholesterol.

When performing the 2nd Set Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi, the heart rate generally fall into the 60% to 80% range of your MHR, some call this range ‘The Endurance Zone’. In this zone of exercise, intensity can be used to build your heart/lung capacity, stamina and endurance.

Respectfully reproduced from our Sifu - Tai Chi, Qigong & Feng Shui Institute