Does Tai Chi reduce the risk of heart attack?

This study investigated if practicing Tai Chi reduces the risk of a heart attack. They found that Tai Chi improved heart health compared to no exercise. 

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the medical term for a heart attack. MI is a leading cause of death worldwide. Preventing MI is very important. This is even more important for people that have had a previous MI. Exercise is one way to improve heart health. The effect of exercise can be measured in many ways. The 6-minute walking test (6MWT) measures endurance. This can tell us how strong your heart is. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) also measures how well your heart is working. LVEF is measured during an echocardiogram. 

Tai Chi is a form of martial arts and meditation. It originated in China and is very popular there. Tai Chi is a low-intensity physical activity (LIPA). LIPA is recommended for patients with previous MI. It is unclear if Tai Chi reduces the risk of MI. 

This study reviewed 7 reports of Tai Chi? in patients with MI. This included 615 patients. A number of parameters were measured to assess physical health. This included the 6MWT and LVEF. Protein levels in the blood were also measured. This included Pro-BNP which increases when the heart is not pumping enough blood. Quality of life (QoL) was measured. 

Tai Chi was associated with improvements in the 6MWT and LVEF compared to no exercise or other LIPA. Tai Chi? was also associated with lower levels of Pro-NP. Higher QoL scores were also associated with Tai Chi.

The authors concluded that Tai Chi improved heart health compared to no exercise.

The number of patients in each study was low. There were differences across the studies. All the studies involved Chinese participants. It is unclear if the benefits of Tai Chi extend to other regions. More controlled studies are needed.

If you have any concerns regarding cardiovascular disease please consult with your doctor.