New Clinical Trial Highlights the Benefits of TAICHI Stick Health Qigong
A randomized controlled trial, published in Frontiers in Public Health on 7 July 2026, investigated whether regular Taichi Stick Health Qigong practice could improve depression and cognitive function in older adults living in a residential aged care centre.
Research Methodology
Researchers recruited 35 adults aged 60 years and over who were randomly assigned to either:
A Health Qigong Taichi Stick exercise group (17 participants)
A control group (18 participants) who continued with their normal daily activities.
The exercise group completed 11 weeks of training, 3 sessions each week and 45 minutes per session.
Researchers measured participants before and after the program using internationally recognised assessments of:
Depression severity (Geriatric Depression Scale-15)
Cognitive function (Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination).
What Did the Study Find?
After only 11 weeks, participants practising Taichi Stick Health Qigong experienced significant improvements compared with the control group.
Reduced Symptoms of Depression
The Taichi Stick Health Qigong group showed a statistically significant reduction in depression severity, while depression scores increased in the control group over the same period.
Improved Cognitive Function
Participants practising Taichi Stick Health Qigong also demonstrated significant improvements in overall cognitive function, particularly in orientation and Immediate memory. These improvements were not seen in the control group.
Safe and Well Tolerated
Importantly, researchers reported no adverse events during the 11-week exercise program, demonstrating that this style of Taichi Stick Health Qigong was a safe activity for older adults participating in the study.
Why These Findings Matter
Depression and cognitive decline are common challenges associated with ageing. The researchers note that regular mind-body exercises such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin, Yijinjing and Taichi Stick Health Qigong offer an accessible, low-impact form of exercise that may help support both mental and cognitive health.
The authors also explain that previous research has found similar benefits from Tai Chi and other traditional Chinese exercises, suggesting improvements may be linked to:
Better brain function and neuroplasticity
Reduced inflammation
Improved stress regulation
Enhanced coordination between mind and body
Gentle aerobic exercise combined with focused breathing and relaxation.
What This Means for Wulong Students
At Wulong, our Tai Chi and Health Qigong programs is built on the same principles highlighted throughout this research—slow, mindful movement, coordinated breathing, relaxed concentration and whole-body integration.
Whether your goal is to maintain physical mobility, improve balance and coordination, sharpen your focus, reduce stress, or simply enjoy moving with others in a welcoming environment, regular practice can become an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Research continues to demonstrate that consistent participation—not perfection—is the key. Even a few sessions each week may help support healthy ageing and overall wellbeing.
Read the research published 7 July 2026 here: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2026.1853313
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