The Effects of Poi on Physical and Cognitive Function in Healthy Older Adults.
Author: van West KR1, Stinear C2, Buck R3
Affiliation:
11 Dance Studies, University of Auckland, Auckland NZ.
22 Department of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, NZ.
33 Dance Studies, University of Auckland, Auckland NZ.
Conference/Journal: J Aging Phys Act.
Date published: 2018 Mar 15
Other:
Volume ID: 1-24 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1123/japa.2017-0273. [Epub ahead of print] , Word Count: 158
This study investigated the effects of poi (a weight on the end of a cord which is swung in circular patterns around the body) compared to Tai Chi on physical and cognitive function in healthy older adults. Seventy-nine participants (60 - 86 years) were randomly allocated to the poi or Tai Chi group. Physical and cognitive function were measured one month before, immediately before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention (2 lessons a week for 4 weeks). Immediately post intervention both groups improved postural stability, upper limb strength, and simple attention. Tai Chi also improved systolic blood pressure. One month post intervention, compared to immediately post intervention, both groups improved upper limb strength, upper limb range of motion, and memory. Poi also improved systolic blood pressure. Therefore, poi seems to be as effective as Tai Chi for improving physical and cognitive function in healthy older adults.
KEYWORDS: Tai Chi; exercise; older adults; poi; quality of life
PMID: 29543125 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2017-0273
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