Kinematic and electromyographic analysis of the push movement in tai chi.
BACKGROUND
Tai chi is a form of exercise derived from the martial art folk traditions of China. The force used in tai chi includes different principles of mechanical advantage. No studies on the kinematic features of tai chi exercise have been published.


OBJECTIVE
To analyse the kinematics and electromyographic characteristics of tai chi.


METHODS
An experienced tai chi master was asked to perform a sequence of basic movements: ward off, roll back, press, and push. The movements were videotaped and digitised using a motion analysis system. Electromyographic activities of the lumbar erector spinae, rectus femoris, medial hamstrings, and medial head of gastrocnemius were recorded by surface electrodes. The push movement data were analysed.


RESULTS
The medial hamstrings and medial head of gastrocnemius muscle groups maintained low activity, with higher electromyographic values in the lumbar erector spinae and substantially higher ones in the rectus femoris during the push movement. Both concentric and eccentric contractions occurred in muscles of the lower limbs, with eccentric contraction occurring mainly in the anti-gravity muscles such as the rectus femoris and the medial head of gastrocnemius. The forward and backward shifts in centre of gravity (CG) were mainly accomplished by increasing and decreasing respectively the joint angles of the bilateral lower limbs rather than by adopting a forward or backward postural lean. The path of the CG in the anteroposterior and mediolateral component was unique, and the sway or deviation from the path was small. The master maintained an upright posture and maintained a low CG (hips, knees, and ankles bent) while travelling slowly and steadily from one position to another.


CONCLUSIONS
The eccentric muscle contraction of the lower limbs in the push movement of tai chi may help to strengthen the muscles.
Chan
S P
SP
Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong. chan_suk_ping@alumni.cuhk.net
Luk
T C
TC
Hong
Y
Y
D004576:Electromyography / Q000379:methods; D006112:Gravitation; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology*; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology*; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D026302:Tai Ji; D014743:Videotape Recording