Pilot study of a 10-week multidisciplinary Tai Chi intervention in sedentary obese women.
OBJECTIVE
Alternative approaches to weight control and physical activity are increasingly needed. Numerous factors influence weight management, including the choice of physical exercise. No study has previously examined the therapeutic effect of a multidisciplinary weight management program incorporating Tai Chi (TC) exercises among sedentary obese women.


METHODS
Randomized intervention trial with blinded medical provider.


METHODS
In day hospital consultations.


METHODS
Twenty-one obese women.


METHODS
All subjects participated in a 10-week weight management program that was part of usual care and included a hypocaloric balanced diet, a weekly physician/psychologist/dietician group session, and an exercise program. For the exercise component, subjects were randomized to either a 2-hour weekly session of TC or a conventional structured exercise program.


METHODS
Changes in weight, body composition, heart rate, blood pressure, mobility scores, mood, Three Factor Eating Questionnaire scores, and General Self-Efficacy.


RESULTS
The TC arm improved in resting systolic blood pressure, chair rise test, mood, and reduced percent of fat at week 10 and at 6 months follow-up. General self-efficacy was enhanced in both groups and maintained at 30 weeks.


CONCLUSIONS
The observed benefits over a 30-week period of a multidisciplinary weight management program incorporating TC exercises on physical functioning mood and dietary restraint need further understanding of how sedentary obese women adhere to physical activity like TC or other alternative exercises.
Dechamps
Arnaud
A
Department of Physical Activity and Exercise Psychology, LACES, Faculté des Sciences du Sport, Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux, France. arnauddechamps@yahoo.co.uk
Gatta
Blandine
B
Bourdel-Marchasson
Isabelle
I
Tabarin
Antoine
A
Roger
Patrick
P
D015992:Body Mass Index; D003631:Day Care, Medical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D026302:Tai Ji; D015431:Weight Loss