A Trial of Tai Chi Intervention for Youngsters with Visual Impairments

Effects of Tai Chi on Health Fitness and Quality of Life in Youngsters with Visual Impairments: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Investigators conducted a single-blind, randomized trial of Taijiquan exercise as compared with a control intervention consisting of wellness education and jogging for youngsters with visual impairments. Sessions lasted 60 minutes each and took place three times a week for 12 weeks for each of the study groups. The primary end point was a change in the Brockport Physical Fitness Test (BPFT) at the end of 12 weeks. Secondary end points included summary scores of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)at the end of 12 weeks.

• Brockport Physical Fitness Test (BPFT) for youngsters with visual impairments, including 20-meter lap scores, Body mass index (BMI), Dominant Grip Strength, Curl-Up, Trunk lift, Back-Saver Sit-and-Reach and Shoulder Stretch.
• Basic information about visually impaired youth, including age, gender, height, weight.
• summary scores of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36)
• summary scores of of the Medical Outcomes Study Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)

Inclusion Criteria:

• The age ranges from 10 to 17 years old, regardless of sex.
• had no previous experience as an athlete.
• could follow simple instructions.
• could walk without assistance.
• could maintain a regular lifestyle during the experiment.
• provided informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The exclusion criterion applied to those who suffered any severe illness or ailment which hinders mobility.