ABSTRACT
In two cross-sectional studies, we examined the long-term practice effects of QiGong exercise on perceived health and quality of life (QoL) in middle-aged (over 50 years) Japanese individuals. In Study 1, Japanese adults (n = 320) who practiced QiGong responded to a questionnaire concerning the perceived benefits of QiGong practice and QoL. In Study 2, we collected data from QiGong participants who attended a QiGong conference (n = 799). Participants in Study 1 perceived that QiGong affords physical, psychological, and social benefits and QiGong duration in years correlated strongly with QoL. In Study 2, those who practiced QiGong for 0–3 years versus 13+ years reported a greater likelihood of perceived palpitation, insomnia, a lack of vigor, and attention deficit (odd ratios 1.56–2.60, all p < .01) with similar trends for joint pain, depression, and forgetfulness. QiGong practice for 13+ versus 0–3 years reduced perception of physical fatigue, poor physical health, joint pain, insomnia, problems with attention, forgetfulness, and anger (odd ratios 1.95–2.85, all p < .05). However, there were no differences in the effects between other practice periods (p > .05). QiGong is a multi-component form of physical activity, which – if practiced for prolonged periods – affords motor, cognitive, social, and QoL benefits.
