Biomechanical study on the characteristics of the motion of Tai Chi Chuan : 3D motion analysis from a view point of Balance

Tai Chi Chuan is one of the traditional cultures with a long history in China. The 24 formulas of the Tai Chi Chuan have developed not for the nobility, but for the public in the Chinese history. It could reform the physical conditions without a difference of the age, sex and physical fitness. The purpose of this study is to verify a hypothesis that the Tai Chi Chuan is more effective for maintaining the balance capability, because the 24 formulas of Tai Chi Chuan has been practiced with the long tradition in China as one of the means of the health and physical education. The one of the typical motion of the Tai Chi Chuan is a foot position during the standing with single foot. Another point is that during the whole exercise of the 24 fomulas of Tai Chi Chuan, player keep standing with single foot about 30% or more of the total time.From these points, it will be able to say that the Tai Chi Chuan develops the balance capability and the physiological function, and that the Tai Chi Chuan is one of the most suitable exercise for middle and elderly person