Question 339 of 433
Do yoga, tai chi, and Pilates count as longevity exercise?
The short answer
Yes, especially tai chi for balance. They complement strength and cardio; they do not replace them.
Tai chi has the best evidence for preventing falls of any exercise. In a trial of 670 older adults at high risk, it cut falls by more than half compared with stretching. Yoga and Pilates improve balance, mobility, and back pain, and people who practice them tend to keep practicing, which counts for a great deal.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ROBUST HUMAN TRIALS for tai chi fall reduction in older adults; HUMAN TRIALS for yoga or Pilates function and pain.Evidence grade (draft mapping)ARobust human trialsPart 22, Q339 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.