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Many people frequently do not perform any regular exercise. Despite
the complexity of Tai Chi, the literature and clinical experience
indicates that people are relatively compliant with the home exercise
program if it includes Tai Chi Chuan or Qigong. Why might people
practice Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong so reliably? Perhaps practicing
this intricate martial art is more interesting than most exercise
routines as it seeks to engage the client on the physical, mental,
social, and spiritual/philosophical levels.
A clinician's enthusiasm while educating the patient regarding potential
benefits of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong practice may be contagious.
People will be more likely to participate in an exercise regime
if they expect it to make a significant improvement in function
or comfort. Likewise, people may be less resistant to performing
these gentle, slow exercises if they perceive them to be non-irritating
to joints. People are more likely to perform two exercises at home
than eight exercises. It is possible to develop a Qigong and Tai
Chi Chuan exercise program that uses one or two postures or movement
patterns to effect a change in strength, flexibility, alignment
and anxiety.
The exotic, unique, cutting edge appeal of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong
as a physical exercise and as a mental practice may lead people
to have higher expectations for benefit from this discipline. Along
with potentiating a beneficial placebo response, these high expectations
would logically encourage practice. Finally, because these movements
can be complex, it is difficult for a client to hide non-adherence
to Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong. This enhanced ability to assess compliance
facilitates a reflective and collaborative relationship with you
that will help motivate you.
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