| Taijiquan is reputed to be a Chinese mind/body fitness system that promotes both physical and mental health. However, there is minimal research concerning the efficacy of Taijiquan. This study examined the relationship between participation in Taijiquan classes and perceived improvement in the level of transitory feelings of anxiety. The study used a pre- and post-test design with one experimental group. The experimental group (n = 57) was comprised of members of Taijiquan classes in Columbia, South Carolina. The subjects participated in eight, one-hour classes in the Yang Style of Taijiquan. Prior to the first class, subjects completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form "Y" (STAI Form Y). Following the eight-week period, all subjects again completed the STAI Form Y. Analysis of the data indicated that following participation in eight, one-hour classes of Taijiquan, "State" feelings of anxiety scores were reduced between 3.62 and 6.31 points. "Trait" feelings of anxiety were reduced between 1.67 and 3.25 points. |
