Effects of Tai Chi and Resistance Training on Physiological Measures and Perception of Hypertension in Stage 1 Hypertensive Individuals.

Patel, J and Konstantaki, Maria (2016) Effects of Tai Chi and Resistance Training on Physiological Measures and Perception of Hypertension in Stage 1 Hypertensive Individuals. In: Ageing, Physical Activity, Recreation and Wellbeing. Cambridge Scholars Publishing, Cambridge, pp. 170-194. ISBN 1-4438-9104-5

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Abstract

Hypertension is a condition that affects some older people and is increasingly becoming a medical problem with epidemic proportions in public health. Patient adherence to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment is a major concern. This chapter discusses the motives to exercise of two diverse groups of Stage 1 hypertensive individuals engaging in a systematic physical exercise programme alongside their physiological attributes. Nine hypertensive individuals were studied. Group A (n=4) were recruited from the Chinese style ‘Movers & Shakers’ and attended Tai Chi once a week, whereas Group B (n=5) attended aerobic circuit training in a local gym once a week. Physiological measures of blood pressure (BP; mmHg), body mass index (BMI; kgm2) and waist to hip ratios were recorded before and after 10 weeks of participation in the exercise programme. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with all participants to gain an understanding of their motives to exercise, their awareness of their condition and the impact of physical activity on their general health. Findings showed that both groups’ physiological measures did not change significantly after 10 weeks of participating in the exercise programme compared to the baseline (P<0.05). There was a trend for systolic blood pressure to reduce in Group B, whereas a trend for reduction in waist to hip ratio was also present in both groups. Low awareness levels of hypertension and problems with the communication of information from physicians appeared to be a common concern amongst participants. Motives for participating in the exercise programme included enjoyment of Tai Chi and spending time with their friends (Group A) and GP referral (Group B). The findings can help to understand the motives of older people to engage in physical activity and may serve as a platform to improve healthcare services in managing appropriate care for hypertensive individuals.

Item Type:	Book Section
Additional Information:	The authors wish to thank the participants of the Chinese style ‘Movers & Shakers’ and the participants of the Hays GP referral scheme for contributing their views and their physiological measures to this study. Special thanks are also owed to Olga McBarnett, Bucks Community Development Lead, for facilitating and supporting this project from the outset. There is no embargo for the chapter. It is in the agreement we have with Cambridge Scholars that the authors will retain the copyright of their work. Maria Konstantaki
Keywords:	Geography, Anthropology, Recreation
Depositing User:	J McPeak
Date Deposited:	23 Mar 2017 14:40
Last Modified:	08 Apr 2021 06:28
URI:	https://bnu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/15459

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