A landmark 2026 umbrella review of 65 clinical trials confirms that Tai Chi and Qigong significantly improve heart function, exercise capacity, and quality of life.
ABOUT THE RESEARCH
Published in Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine on 20 March 2026, this study is one of the most comprehensive analyses of Tai Chi and Qigong ever conducted. Researchers reviewed 15 systematic reviews and meta-analyses covering 65 randomised controlled trials and thousands of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) — a condition affecting over 64 million people worldwide that causes breathlessness, exhaustion, and greatly reduced quality of life.
Rather than simply summarising previous reviews, the team went back to raw trial data and re-ran the statistics from scratch — producing the most up-to-date and reliable pooled estimates available.
WHAT THE RESEARCH FOUND
Across all forms studied — Tai Chi, Baduanjin, Yijinjing, and Liuzijue qigongs — these consistently and significantly improved every major measure of heart health tested:
Exercise capacity: participants walked an average of 53 metres further in the six-minute walk test
Quality of life improved substantially on validated heart failure scoring
Heart pumping efficiency (LVEF) increased by an average of 4.
Cardiac stress markers (BNP/NT-proBNP) fell significantly — with Baduanjin producing the strongest reductions
Aerobic capacity (VO₂max) improved, with Yijinjing showing the greatest gains
Anxiety and depression reduced, and heart rate variability — a key indicator of nervous system health — improved
Importantly, no significant differences were found between the forms. All styles delivered meaningful benefits, making consistent practice the deciding factor.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR WULONG STUDENTS
These benefits extend well beyond people with diagnosed heart disease. The mechanisms at work here — improved autonomic balance, better oxygen uptake, reduced inflammation, and stronger cardiovascular function — are relevant to all of us. Every class at Wulong, practicing Tai Chi, Qigong, or Wushu, trains your heart, lungs, and nervous system simultaneously, gently enough to be sustained for life. The research is clear: start early and practise consistently for the greatest long-term gains.
-----
Read the research published 20 March 2026 here: https://doi.org/10.31083/RCM46055
If you are looking for a program to support your health, try a Wulong class today. Click here to see all our class locations and timings: https://www.wulongtaichi.com.au/tai-chi-classes