Note: [] Address for correspondence: Hala Tamim, PhD, School of
Kinesiology & Health Science, 359 Bethune College, York University, 4700
Keele Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M3J 1P3. Tel.: +1 416 736 2100 x 33338;
Fax: +1 416 736 5774; E-mail: htamim@yorku.ca
Abstract: Background: Workplace computer use has increased dramatically in
recent years and has been linked to musculoskeletal disorders, a leading cause
of work disability and productivity losses in industrialized nations. Tai Chi
is a simple, convenient workplace intervention that may promote musculoskeletal
health without special equipment or showering, yet no study has investigated
Tai Chi as a workplace physical exercise for health promotion. Objective:
To examine the effects of a workplace Tai Chi (TC) intervention on
musculoskeletal fitness and psychological well-being among female university
employees who are computer users. Methods: The exercise program consisted
of two 50 minute TC classes per week for 12 consecutive weeks during the months
of May-August 2007. Fifty-two participants were enrolled in a class conducted
on campus by a professional TC practitioner during the lunch hour.
Socio-demographic characteristics, including information on age, marital
status, ethnicity, job category and perceived overall health were collected
from all participants. Fitness testing conducted by qualified personnel was
assessed pre- and post-program. The tests included resting heart rate, resting
blood pressure, anthropometric measures, musculoskeletal fitness and back
fitness. Psychological well-being was assessed by the Perceived Stress Scale
pre- and post-program. Results: There were significant positive results
in several areas including resting heart rate, waist circumference and hand
grip strength. Results showed that the TC program was effective in improving
musculoskeletal fitness and psychological well-being. Conclusions: Significant improvements in physiological and psychological measures were
observed, even at the large class sizes tested here, suggesting that TC has
considerable potential as an economic, effective and convenient workplace
intervention.
Keywords: Work environment, musculoskeletal disorders, exercise/px [psychology], tai chi, obesity/pc [prevention & control], experimental design
