Optimal exercise parameters of tai chi for balance performance in older adults: A meta‐analysis

Tai chi is considered a safe and low-cost treatment for improving balance ability among an older population. However, there is no existing evidence on the optimal exercise parameters of tai chi for improving balance in older adults. The purpose of this study is to investigate the optimal parameters of a tai chi intervention to improve balance performance of older adults. Participants are adults aged 60 years and over. Twenty-six eligible RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled results showed that tai chi has moderate effects for improving proactive balance and static steady-state balance and small effects for improving dynamic steady-state balance and balance test batteries in adults over 60 years of age. The practice frequency could predict the effects of tai chi on static steady-state balance, and the 24-form simplified Yang style tai chi (45–60 min/session, more than four sessions per week and at least 8 weeks) was the most optimal. Tai chi is effective at improving the balance ability of adults over 60 years of age. A medium duration and high frequency of 24-form tai chi may be the optimal program for improving balance, but this evidence should be recommended with caution due to limitations of the methodology and small sample sizes.