Development of Taichi Training Program to Improve the Core Physical Fitness of Male College Students DOI:

Abstract

Background and Aim: The Taichi training program significantly enhances core physical fitness by improving balance, strength, and flexibility through gentle, flowing movements. Additionally, it promotes better posture and body awareness, crucial for overall physical stability and injury prevention. This study aims to: (1) validate the effectiveness of a Tai Chi training program in enhancing core physical fitness among male college students and (2) compare the mean and standard deviation of core physical fitness between the experimental and control groups using t-tests. 

Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental research design was employed, involving 40 male college students from a university Tai Chi club. Participants were systematically assigned to either an experimental group (n = 20) or a control group (n = 20). The experimental group underwent an eight-week Tai Chi training program, consisting of three 90-minute sessions per week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday). The core physical fitness of both groups was assessed before and after the intervention. An independent samples t-test was used to compare baseline differences, while post-intervention differences were analyzed using both independent samples t-tests and paired samples t-tests. The significance level was set at 0.05.

Results: The findings indicate that the eight-week Tai Chi intervention, incorporating the 24-style Tai Chi form and key movement patterns, significantly improved core strength, coordination, functional stability, and flexibility among the experimental group compared to traditional training methods. Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in sit-up performance (p = 0.03), highlighting improvements in muscular endurance. Additionally, the experimental group exhibited greater flexibility (p = 0.002) and enhanced balance and coordination, as indicated by superior performance in the one-legged jump test (p = 0.02). These results suggest that Tai Chi is an effective approach for enhancing core physical fitness in college students. The study confirms that Tai Chi training significantly enhances core strength, flexibility, and postural stability in young adults. The structured, low-impact nature of Tai Chi makes it an accessible and sustainable training method for core fitness development. The controlled, rhythmic movements of Tai Chi foster muscle endurance, postural control, and neuromuscular efficiency, reinforcing its validity as a functional fitness approach.