Chen-style Tai Chi in Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chen-style Tai Chi in Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study will evaluate the effects of Chen-style Tai Chi compared to conventional exercise in pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD patients. Half of participants will receive the Chen-style Tai Chi intervention, while the other half will receive the conventional exercise intervention. Both groups will receive the same eduction and support during pulmonary rehabilitation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• FEV1 between 30 and 80% of the predicted normal values
• FEV1/FVC ratio < 70%

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with very severe COPD (GOLD IV);
• Patients that had a COPD exacerbations within the preceding 2 weeks of the baseline assessments;
• Significant hypoxemia at rest or during exercise (SpO2 <85%);
• Already following a rehabilitation program;
• Have physical limitations that compromises participation to a Tai chi and a conventional exercise program