Classical Tai Chi and BP are a serious matter

Grandmaster Young Wabu

 Master Stephen Hwa

Classical Tai Chi and Blood Pressure

Classical Tai Chi is a “Small Circle” style of Tai Chi that emphasizes the art's traditional and authentic methods. While there is limited information on Classical Tai Chi and blood pressure, we can draw insights from the broader research on Tai Chi and its effects on blood pressure. 

Sifu Jim Roach, a teacher of Classical Tai, relates an incident about using caution in the study and states that one should not stop taking blood pressure medication. A student of his stopped her medication on the days she attended class. The student said she “just wanted to see if it worked.” Jim Roach told her this was incredibly foolish and dangerous. The student did not continue her Tai Chi studies. 

Studies and Findings

Several studies have investigated the impact of Tai Chi on blood pressure, including:

. A systematic review of 26 studies found that Tai Chi reduced blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) in patients with and without cardiovascular conditions.

. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that Tai Chi exercise significantly lowered blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension.

. Another study found that Qigong and Tai Chi may effectively reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular risk factors. It should be noted that Master Stephen Hwa points out that classical tai chi is also a “movement Qigong.”

Potential Mechanisms

The mechanisms by which Tai Chi may lower blood pressure are not fully understood but may involve:

. Reduced stress and anxiety, which can contribute to hypertension.

. Improved cardiovascular function, including increased blood flow and reduced peripheral resistance.

. Enhanced nitric oxide production can help dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

. Increased parasympathetic activity, which can promote relaxation and reduce blood pressure.

Conclusion

While there is no specific research on Classical Tai Chi and blood pressure, the available evidence suggests that Tai Chi, in general, may be beneficial for lowering blood pressure. As a style of Tai Chi that emphasizes traditional methods,  Classical Tai Chi may also offer similar benefits. However, more research is needed to investigate the effects of this style on blood pressure specifically.