Effect of different types of Tai Chi exercise programs on the rate of change in bone mineral density in middle-aged adults at risk of osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate three Tai Chi (TC) exercise programs as intervention measures to compare their effects on improving rate of change in bone mineral density (BMD) in elderly individuals with osteoporosis (OP) and to propose the optimal exercise duration. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to identify study participants based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Due to subject attrition, the number of participants analyzed decreased from 60 to 49. These participants were divided into four groups: 24-style TC Chuan group (24TCCG) (n = 13, 7 males/6 females), TC Kung Fu Fan group (TCKFFG) (n = 12, 5 males/7 females), TC Softball group (TCSBG) (n = 11, 6 males/5 females), and a control group (CG) (n = 13, 6 males/7 females). Except for the control group, each group received different TC exercise programs four times a week for 60 min per session, lasting for 16 weeks. BMD was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the L2-L4 lumbar vertebrae, Ward's triangle, femoral neck, and greater trochanter. The rate of change of BMD was calculated using the formula. RESULTS: Compared with CG, all three TC groups showed significant improvements in BMD changes (P < 0.05), but their effects on the improvement of femoral neck and greater tuberosity BMD change rates were similar (P > 0.05). In addition, compared to the other exercise regimens, 24TCCG demonstrated more significant improvements in BMD at the L2-L4 lumbar vertebrae region and exhibited a more pronounced improvement in Ward's triangle BMD after only 8 weeks (P < 0.05). Short-term (≤ 4 weeks) TCKFFG was more effective than TCSBG in enhancing femoral neck BMD (P < 0.05). However, statistical significance was not found (P > 0.05) in all other cases. CONCLUSION: These three TC exercise programs have similar positive effects on the BMD of the femoral neck and greater trochanter. However, compared with other exercise schemes, 24TCC showed a more significant improvement in BMD of the L2-L4 lumbar vertebrae region after just 8 weeks, as well as a more pronounced improvement in BMD of Ward's triangle. In terms of improving femoral neck BMD, TCKFF was found to be more effective than TCSB in less than 4 weeks. This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of TC exercise in improving BMD and preventing OP in the middle-aged and elderly high-risk population.

An IoT Sensing Platform and Serious Game for Remote Martial Arts Training.

We propose a system for self-supported martial arts training using an IoT sensing platform and Serious Game that can also be extended for general sports training. In martial arts, it is important that the practitioner is correctly performing each technique to accurately learn and prevent injury. A common stance in all martial arts, but especially in Shaolin Kung Fu, is the horse stance or Mabu. With the pandemic, many more people adopted remote training without the presence of a professional trainer to give advice. Our developed LifeMat system, which is a novel IoT pressure-sensitive training mat, uses pressure maps and pattern recognition to accurately classify key martial arts postures, provide feedback on form, and detect when the user performs the technique incorrectly. This is presented in the form of a Serious Game we have developed named Kung Future that focuses on the Mabu stance as a case study. We tested 14 participants with three different feedback conditions and demonstrated that, on average, participants had higher performance, duration, engagement, and motivation when game feedback was active. Furthermore, user responses from the surveys suggested positive feedback for real-world and long-term use and scalability.

Myoarticular recovery after kung fu training / Recuperação mioarticular após o treinamento de kung fu / Recuperación mioarticular tras el entrenamiento de kung fu

ABSTRACT Introduction Kung fu is a Chinese martial art with continuous movements based on step movement and embodied by the transformation of body shapes, requiring the athletes to strengthen the lower limbs. Joint and muscle analysis are critical to verify the strength of athletes' lower limbs and play a guiding role in evaluating the level of recovery for injured athletes. Objective Explore the myoarticular recovery effect after kung fu training. Methods 24 kung fu athletes were randomly divided into experimental and control groups, with 6 males and 6 females in each group. The athletes in the experimental group received traditional martial training for 60 minutes, while the control group received relaxation training simultaneously. The experiment lasted for 6 months and was performed 6 times a month. Results After kung fu training, the rates of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group. Conclusion Kung fu training positively impacts the athletes' muscle strength and joint strength. Kung fu training can also improve the level of myoarticular recovery and improve the flexibility of its practitioners. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução O kung fu, é uma arte marcial chinesa com movimentos contínuos baseados no movimento de passos e materializado pela transformação da forma corporal, requerendo dos atletas uma boa força dos membros inferiores. A análise das articulações e dos músculos são fundamentais para verificar a força dos membros inferiores dos atletas e desempenham um papel guia na avaliação do nível de recuperação aos atletas lesionados. Objetivo Explorar o efeito de recuperação mioarticular após o treinamento de kung fu. Métodos 24 atletas de kung fu foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupo experimental e controle, com 6 homens e 6 mulheres em cada grupo. Os atletas do grupo experimental receberam treinamento marcial tradicional durante 60 minutos, enquanto o grupo de controle recebeu treinamento de relaxamento durante o mesmo tempo. O experimento durou 6 meses e foi realizado 6 vezes por mês. Resultados Após o treinamento de kung fu, os índices do grupo experimental foram maiores que os do grupo de controle. Conclusão O treinamento de kung fu revelou impactos positivos sobre a força muscular e a força articular dos atletas. O treinamento de kung fu pode melhorar ainda o nível de recuperação mioarticular e aprimorar a flexibilidade de seus praticantes. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción El kung fu, es un arte marcial chino con movimientos continuos basados en el movimiento de pasos y materializados por la transformación de la forma corporal, requiriendo de los atletas una buena fuerza de los miembros inferiores. El análisis de las articulaciones y los músculos es fundamental para verificar la fuerza de los miembros inferiores de los deportistas y desempeña un papel orientador en la evaluación del nivel de recuperación de los deportistas lesionados. Objetivo Explorar el efecto de recuperación mioarticular después del entrenamiento de kung fu. Métodos 24 atletas de kung fu fueron divididos aleatoriamente en grupo experimental y de control, con 6 hombres y 6 mujeres en cada grupo. Los atletas del grupo experimental recibieron entrenamiento marcial tradicional durante 60 minutos, mientras que el grupo de control recibió entrenamiento de relajación durante el mismo tiempo. El experimento duró 6 meses y se realizó 6 veces al mes. Resultados Tras el entrenamiento de kung fu, los índices del grupo experimental fueron superiores a los del grupo de control. Conclusión El entrenamiento de kung fu reveló impactos positivos en la fuerza muscular y la fuerza articular de los atletas. El entrenamiento de kung fu también puede mejorar el nivel de recuperación mioarticular y aumentar la flexibilidad de sus practicantes. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Sports injuries caused by the practice of kung fu in college students / Lesões esportivas causadas pela prática de kung fu nos estudantes universitários / Lesiones deportivas causadas por la práctica de kung fu en estudiantes universitarios

ABSTRACT Introduction: Kungfu is a traditional Chinese sports activity, and many optional courses are offered in many universities. However, during kung fu practice, sports injuries can be caused. Objective: Investigate the most common types of sports injuries caused by kung fu practice and present intervention countermeasures. Methods: A total of 612 college students practicing kung fu at 5 universities were investigated, and a 12-week follow-up survey was conducted to collect data on the types, causes, and injury grades of their sports injuries. According to the survey results, reasonable prevention and intervention measures were formulated to ensure the safety of kung fu practice. Results: The sports injuries caused by kung fu practice mainly occurred at the waist, knees, and ankles, and the types of sports injuries were mainly by ligament strain, which was mainly caused by improper preparation, poor physical functioning, and mental state, incorrect technical movements, etc. Conclusion: Kung fu practice can improve the physical health of college students, but it can also lead to sports injuries, especially to the pelvic girdle, knees, and ankles. Strict preventive measures should be taken to prevent sports injuries from affecting the physical health of college students. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução: O kung fu é uma atividade esportiva tradicional chinesa, sendo que muitos cursos opcionais são oferecidos em várias universidades. Porém, durante a prática de kung fu, lesões esportivas podem ser causadas. Objetivo: Investigar os tipos mais comuns de lesões esportivas causadas pela prática de kung fu e apresentar as contramedidas de intervenção. Métodos: Um total de 612 estudantes universitários praticantes de kung fu em 5 universidades foram investigados, uma pesquisa de acompanhamento de 12 semanas foi realizada para coletar dados sobre os tipos, causas e graus de lesão de suas lesões esportivas. De acordo com os resultados da pesquisa, foram formuladas medidas razoáveis de prevenção e intervenção para garantir a segurança da prática de kung fu. Resultados: As lesões esportivas causadas pela prática de kung fu ocorreram principalmente na cintura, joelhos e tornozelos, e os tipos de lesões esportivas foram principalmente por tensão ligamentar, que foi causada principalmente por preparação inadequada, mau funcionamento físico e estado mental, movimentos técnicos incorretos, etc. Conclusão: A prática de kung fu pode melhorar a saúde física dos estudantes universitários, mas também pode levar a lesões esportivas, principalmente na cintura pélvica, joelhos e tornozelos. Medidas preventivas rigorosas devem ser tomadas para evitar que lesões esportivas afetem a saúde física dos estudantes universitários. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: El kung fu es una actividad deportiva tradicional china, y en muchas universidades se ofrecen cursos opcionales. Sin embargo, durante la práctica del kung fu pueden producirse lesiones deportivas. Objetivo: Investigar los tipos más comunes de lesiones deportivas causadas por la práctica del kung fu y presentar las contramedidas de intervención. Métodos: Se investigó a un total de 612 estudiantes universitarios que practicaban kung fu en 5 universidades, y se realizó una encuesta de seguimiento de 12 semanas para recoger datos sobre los tipos, las causas y los grados de lesión de sus lesiones deportivas. Según los resultados de la investigación, se formularon medidas razonables de prevención e intervención para garantizar la seguridad de la práctica del kung fu. Resultados: Las lesiones deportivas causadas por la práctica del kung fu se produjeron principalmente en la cintura, las rodillas y los tobillos, y los tipos de lesiones deportivas fueron sobre todo por distensión de los ligamentos, lo que fue causado principalmente por una preparación inadecuada, un mal funcionamiento físico y un estado mental, movimientos técnicos incorrectos, etc. Conclusión: La práctica del kung fu puede mejorar la salud física de los estudiantes universitarios, pero también puede provocar lesiones deportivas, principalmente en la cintura pélvica, las rodillas y los tobillos. Deben adoptarse estrictas medidas preventivas para evitar que las lesiones deportivas afecten a la salud física de los estudiantes universitarios. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Resistance training applied to the teaching of kung fu / Treinamento de resistência aplicado no ensino de kung fu / Entrenamiento de resistencia aplicado a la enseñanza del kung fu

ABSTRACT Introduction Many studies have explored different training methods to improve cardiorespiratory capacity, ensuring better oxygen demand to help students develop better sports skills and teaching outcomes. Objective Explore the effects of applying resistance training on kung fu teaching. Methods 40 kung fu athletes were selected as research volunteers. They were randomly divided into experimental and control groups; both were trained in a cardiopulmonary resistance protocol for 8 weeks, three times a week, using a breathing trainer. The control group trained at 20%, while the experimental group had their training at 50% of full capacity. Results The maximal inspiratory pressure, FEV1 / FVC, and mvv15 of the lung function indices increased significantly in the experimental group; the forced capacity and maximal ventilation of the oxygen uptake capacity indices also increased significantly. The blood oxygen saturation and the blood flow perfusion index of the oxygen utilization capacity indices had significant differences between the groups; the central balance and flexibility indices also showed significant differences. Conclusion After cardiopulmonary endurance training, the athletes' capacity was significantly improved, inferring a benefit in the quality of kung fu teaching. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução Muitos estudos têm explorado explorando diferentes métodos de treinamento para melhorar a capacidade cardiorrespiratória, garantindo uma melhor demanda de oxigênio para ajudar os estudantes a desenvolverem melhores habilidades esportivas e resultados do ensino. Objetivo Explorar os efeitos da aplicação do treinamento de resistência sobre o ensino de kung fu. Métodos 40 atletas de kung fu foram selecionados como voluntários de pesquisa. Eles foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupo experimental e controle, ambos foram treinados num protocolo de resistência cardiopulmonar durante 8 semanas, três vezes por semana, utilizando um treinador respiratório. O grupo controle treinou a 20% enquanto o experimental teve seu treinamento a 50% de capacidade total. Resultados A pressão inspiratória máxima, VEF1 / FVC e mvv15 dos índices de função pulmonar aumentou significativamente no grupo experimental, a capacidade forçada e a ventilação máxima dos índices de capacidade de absorção de oxigênio também aumentaram significativamente. A saturação de oxigênio no sangue e o índice de perfusão do fluxo sanguíneo dos índices de capacidade de utilização de oxigênio tiveram diferenças significativas entre os grupos, o equilíbrio central e os índices de flexibilidade também evidenciaram diferenças significativas. Conclusão Após o treinamento de resistência cardiopulmonar, a capacidade dos atletas foi significativamente aprimorada, inferindo um benefício na qualidade do ensino de kung fu. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Muchos estudios han explorado diferentes métodos de entrenamiento para mejorar la capacidad cardiorrespiratoria, asegurando una mejor demanda de oxígeno para ayudar a los estudiantes a desarrollar mejores habilidades deportivas y resultados de enseñanza. Objetivo Explorar los efectos de la aplicación del entrenamiento de resistencia en la enseñanza del kung fu. Métodos Se seleccionaron 40 atletas de kung fu como voluntarios para la investigación. Se dividieron aleatoriamente en grupo experimental y grupo de control, ambos fueron entrenados en un protocolo de resistencia cardiopulmonar durante 8 semanas, tres veces por semana, utilizando un entrenador de respiración. El grupo de control entrenó al 20% mientras que el grupo experimental lo hizo al 50% de su capacidad. Resultados La presión inspiratoria máxima, VEF1 / FVC y mvv15 de los índices de función pulmonar aumentaron significativamente en el grupo experimental, la capacidad forzada y la ventilación máxima de los índices de capacidad de captación de oxígeno también aumentaron significativamente. La saturación de oxígeno en sangre y el índice de perfusión del flujo sanguíneo de los índices de capacidad de utilización de oxígeno presentaron diferencias significativas entre los grupos, los índices de equilibrio central y de flexibilidad también mostraron diferencias significativas. Conclusión Tras el entrenamiento de resistencia cardiopulmonar, la capacidad de los atletas mejoró significativamente, lo que infiere un beneficio en la calidad de la enseñanza del kung fu. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Can audience involvement stimulate visit intention in Chinese Kung Fu? Using a serial multiple mediation model to explore film tourism.

The popularity of film and television causes audiences to flock to the location of filming, and thus film tourism is widely been used as an efficient tool in destination branding and marketing. Accordingly, this study takes Chinese Kung Fu film and television as an example, using the method of regression model to study audience involvement, cognitive destination image, tourists' anticipated experiences, and visit intention into an overall framework. Findings illustrate a significant positive correlation among these four factors. Specifically, cognitive destination image and tourists' anticipated experiences have a partial mediating effect on the relationship between audience involvement and visit intention. This study provides three suggestions for the development of film tourism, namely maximizing the marketing effect, strengthening the unity of film and images of destinations, and making full use of modern marketing tools.

Benefits of the optional kung fu course on university students' physical health / Benefícios do curso opcional de kung fu sobre a saúde física dos estudantes universitários / Beneficios del curso opcional de kung fu en la salud física de los estudiantes universitarios

ABSTRACT Objective: This paper examines the benefits of the optional Kung Fu course on students' physical health. Methods: Specific strategies promoting elective Kung Fu courses in Chinese universities are presented after analyzing the current situation of university students' psychophysical health. Results: According to the characteristics of martial arts students, providing effective sports intervention is an important demand for educators. Its development is also an important feature of modern sports and medicine. Conclusions: According to the analysis of the general physical status of Chinese college students at the current stage, students in ordinary colleges and universities should pay more attention to the importance of sports activities for students' physical quality and mental health education when participating in sports activities. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este documento analisa os benefícios do curso optativo de Kung Fu sobre a saúde física dos estudantes. Métodos: As estratégias específicas em promoção de cursos eletivos de Kung Fu nas universidades chinesas são apresentadas após análise da situação atual da saúde psicofísica dos estudantes universitários. Resultados: De acordo com as características dos estudantes de artes marciais, proporcionar uma intervenção esportiva eficaz é uma demanda importante para os educadores. Seu desenvolvimento é também uma característica importante do esporte e da medicina moderna. Conclusões: De acordo com a análise do estado físico geral dos estudantes universitários chineses no estágio atual, os estudantes das faculdades e universidades comuns deveriam prestar mais atenção à importância das atividades esportivas para a qualidade física e a educação da saúde mental dos estudantes quando participam de atividades esportivas. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos - investigação de resultados de tratamento.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Este trabajo analiza los beneficios del curso optativo de kung-fu en la salud física de los estudiantes universitarios. Métodos: Se presentan las estrategias específicas para promover los cursos electivos de Kung Fu en las universidades chinas tras analizar la situación actual de la salud psicofísica de los estudiantes universitarios. Resultados: De acuerdo con las características de los alumnos de artes marciales, proporcionar una intervención deportiva eficaz es una demanda importante para los educadores. Su desarrollo es también una característica importante del deporte y de la medicina moderna. Conclusiones: Según el análisis del estado físico general de los estudiantes universitarios chinos en la etapa actual, los estudiantes de las universidades ordinarias deberían prestar más atención a la importancia de las actividades deportivas para la calidad física y la educación de la salud mental de los estudiantes cuando participan en actividades deportivas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - investigación de resultados de tratamiento.

Valores éticos e estéticos do kung-fu: uma revisão sistemática / Ethical and aesthetic values of kung-fu: a systematic review / Valores ético y estético del kung-fu: una revisión sistemática

O Kung-Fu é uma arte marcial chinesa já milenar e também mundialmente conhecido por seus princípios de ensino à ética e estética, destacandose com uma profunda singularidade filosófica vertida em valores. Neste estudo qualitativo realizou-se uma revisão sistemática objetivando identificar a literatura sobre a importância da ética e da estética no contexto do valor educativo do Kung-Fu. Encontraram-se 36 artigos e quase todos abordam a ética e estética de maneira genérica e abstrata. Só quatro eram em língua portuguesa. Muitos citam a ética e a estética como aspectos filosóficos históricos, mas não abordam essas temáticas quando adentram em competições desportivas.

Kung Fu is an ancient Chinese martial art and world renowned for its principles of teaching ethics and aesthetics, standing out with a profound philosophical singularity poured into values. However, very little literature deals with these issues deeply. In this qualitative study a systematic review was carried out in order to identify the literature on ethical and aesthetic education through Kung-Fu. We found 36 articles and almost all approach ethics and aesthetics in a generic and abstract way. Only four were in Portuguese. Many cite ethics and aesthetics as historical philosophical aspects, but do not address these issues when they enter sports competitions.

El Kung-Fu es un arte marcial chino milenario y mundialmente conocido por sus principios de enseñanza a la ética y la estética, que se destacan con una profunda singularidad filosófica vertida en valores. Sin embargo, poca literatura aborda estas temáticas profundamente. En este estudio cualitativo se realizó una revisión sistemática con el objetivo de identificar la literatura sobre educación ética y estética a través del Kung-Fu. Se encontraron 36 artículos y casi todos abordan la ética y estética de manera genérica y abstracta. Sólo cuatro estaban en portugués. Muchos citan la ética y estética como aspectos filosóficos históricos, pero no abordan esas temáticas cuando adentran en competiciones deportivas.

Ensino do Kung Fu sob a ótica de alunos inseridos num contexto da pedagogia do esporte / Kung Fu's teaching from practioners perspectives in the sport's pedagogy background

O objetivo do estudo consistiu em compreender o ensino do Kung Fu sob a ótica de alunos inseridos num contexto da pedagogia do esporte. Para tanto, foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa qualitativa com cinco voluntários que participaram de 16 aulas de Kung Fu. O estudo foi desenvolvido numa universidade federal do estado de São Paulo e os voluntários foram membros da comunidade acadêmica, acima de 18 anos, com o desejo de praticar kung fu, com ou sem experiência prévia com a modalidade. O critério de exclusão utilizado foi a presença inferior a 75% das aulas. A coleta de dados se deu por meio da aplicação de dois questionários abertos, respectivamente na primeira e décima sexta aula. O primeiro questionário tinha o intuito de mapear as expectativas iniciais dos voluntários quanto às aulas. Já o segundo tinha o objetivo de verificar se as expectativas tinham sido alcançadas, bem como os pontos positivos e os pontos a serem superados pela proposta. A análise de dados se deu por meio de categorias não apriorísticas. Os resultados revelaram que as expectativas iniciais dos alunos estiveram ligadas ao retorno da prática, à aprendizagem, à atividade física e à defesa pessoal. De acordo com os voluntários todas as expectativas foram alcançadas. Em relação aos pontos positivos da proposta os voluntários ressaltaram a aprendizagem, a didática, a integração, a aplicabilidade e o acesso, enquanto o espaço físico, a continuidade e o tempo foram apontados como aspectos negativos. Conclui-se que a ótica dos praticantes revelou a necessidade de se investir em propostas de ensino mais ampliadas. Tal pressuposto se alinha com as pedagogias críticas da Educação Física para o qual o ensino da cultura corporal deve permitir a descoberta de novos sentidos, ampliando assim a experiência das pessoas envolvidas....(AU)

The aim of the study was to understand the teaching of Kung Fu from the perspective of students inserted in a context of the pedagogy of the sport. A qualitative research was developed with five volunteers who participated in 16 Kung Fu classes. This research was developed in a federal university of São Paulo State (Brazil). The inclusion criteria were: people from this university, over 18 years old, people who wanted to practice kung fu, experienced or no. The unique exclusion criterion was 75% class attendance. Data collection was done through the application of two open questionnaires, respectively in first and last class. The first questionnaire was designed to reveal the original student's expectations. The second questionnaire aimed to confirm if the original expectations were fulfilled, and know positive and negatives aspects from the classes as well. Data analysis was performed by non-a priori categories. We found students' expectations were linked to switch back to practice, learning, physical activity and selfdefense, and all were achieved. Also, learning, didactics, integration, applicability and access were highlighted as positive aspects of the proposal, while physical space, continuity and time were pointed as negative aspects. It was concluded that the practitioners' perspective revealed the need to invest in more extended teaching proposals. This fact is in line with critical pedagogies from Physical Education area, in which the body culture teaching allow the discovery of new meanings, so broadening the people experience....(AU)

Everybody was Kung-Fu fighting-The beneficial effects of Tai Chi Qigong and self-defense Kung-Fu training on psychological and endocrine health in middle aged and older men.

BACKGROUND: Higher age is associated to a variety of physical and mental disorders. Age-related changes in steroid secretion have been suggested to be an underlying mechanism leading to frailty, depression, and sexual dysfunction. However, Tai chi qigong and similar forms of exercise have been shown to improve a great variety of health-related parameters in older individuals. METHODS: We examined 56 self-reporting healthy men actively practicing Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu and 55 age-matched self-reporting healthy controls. Saliva samples were obtained in a standardized procedure for subsequent quantification of circulating testosterone and cortisol levels. In addition, depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and sexual health were assessesd via self-report questionnaires. RESULTS: Age was negatively associated with testosterone, while no association emerged for cortisol. Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training was neither associated with testosterone nor cortisol. More weekly Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training (4 or more times per week) was instead associated with a lower CT-ratio, less depressive symptoms, and higher life satisfaction compared to individuals, who trained only one to three times per week. More years of Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training were associated with less depressive symptoms and higher life satisfaction but not with the CT-ratio. No significant associations emerged for Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training and sexual health. When compared to the age-matched controls, there is a significant effect of Tai chi, qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu on the CT-ratio. Contrast analyses revealed a significantly lower CT-ratio for the high training load group in contrast to the low training load group. Further, in contrast to the control group, the low training load group exhibits a significantly higher CT-ratio. For depression, contrast analyses revealed a significantly lower level of depression in the high training load group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training is beneficially associated with steroid secretion patterns and mental health in aging men, when training is performed with a frequency of 4 or more trainings per week. However, the high frequency training and control group show similar steroid secretion patterns suggesting an inverted U-shaped association between Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training frequency and the CT-ratio in aging men. More research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanism of this association. Still, Tai chi qigong and/or self-defense Kung-fu training provides a promising prevention strategy against age-related physical and mental deterioration in aging men.

O processo de difusão do kung fu no ocidente: entre o sentido de perda e a inevitabilidade da perda do sentido / The process of dissemination of Kung Fu in west: Between sense of loss and inevitability loss of sense / El proceso de difusión de Kung Fu en occidente: Entre lo significado de pérdida y la inevitabilidad de la pérdida de lo significado

Neste artigo, procuramos problematizar aspectos do processo de desenvolvimento do Kung Fu na China e de sua posterior difusão para o Ocidente à luz da teoria sociológica de Norbert Elias. Para cumprir este objetivo, estruturamos o texto em três partes. Na primeira delas, apresentamos alguns elementos da teoria de Elias que são úteis para estudar o Kung Fu. Na segunda parte do artigo, por sua vez, trazemos alguns indícios acerca do processo de difusão do Kung Fu para o Ocidente, tomando como leitura auxiliar a obra "O Mosteiro de Shaolin" de Meir Shahar. Na terceira e última parte do texto, sugerimos que a recepção do Kung Fu no Ocidente engendra um processo social que conjuga elementos da tradição chinesa e da modernidade capitalista, conferindo a essa prática um caráter híbrido e polissêmico.

In this paper, we discuss aspects of the development process of Kung Fu in China and its subsequent spread to the West in the light of sociological theory of Norbert Elias. To meet this goal, we have structured the text into three parts. In the first, we present some elements of theory of Elias that are useful to study Kung Fu. In the second part of the article, in turn, bring some evidence about the Kung Fu diffusion process to the West, taking as a reading aid work "Shaolin Monastery" of Meir Shahar. The third and final part of the text, we suggest that the reception of Kung Fu in the West engenders a social process that combines elements of Chinese tradition and capitalist modernity, giving the practice a hybrid and ambiguous character

En este trabajo se discuten los aspectos del proceso de desarrollo de Kung Fu en China y su posterior propagación hacia el Occidente, a la luz de la teoría sociológica de Norbert Elias. Para cumplir con este objetivo, hemos estructurado el texto en tres partes. En la primera, se presentan algunos elementos de la teoría de Elias que son útiles para estudiar el Kung Fu. En la segunda parte del artículo, a su vez, trae algunas evidencias sobre el proceso de difusión de Kung Fu al Occidente, teniendo como lectura de apoyo el trabajo "Monasterio de Shaolin" de Meir Shahar. En la tercera y última parte del texto, se sugiere que la recepción de lo Kung Fu en Occidente engendra un proceso social que combina elementos de la tradición chino y la modernidad capitalista, dando a la práctica un carácter híbrido y plural.

Kung-fu versus swimming training and the effects on balance abilities in young adolescents.

OBJECTIVE: Our purpose is to investigate the static balance control of young adolescents practicing kung-fu and swimming in order to find out which of these physical activities is the most effective in developing specific balance abilities in young adolescents. DESIGN: Comparative experimental study. SETTING: University laboratory research. PARTICIPANTS: Three groups of 11-13-year-old boys (12 practicing Kung-Fu, 12 practicing swimming and 12 controls). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Center of pressure (CoP) excursions were registered in upright bipedal and unipedal stances on a stabilometric force platform in eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC) conditions. RESULTS: Kung-fu practitioners control their balance (P < .05) better than controls and swimmers in the unipedal posture when visual inputs are available. Kung-fu training improved (P < .05) the bipedal balance control in the EO condition. However, swimming training developed (P < .05) bipedal balance control in both EO and EC conditions. The swimmers showed a lower reliance on vision (P < .05) compared to kung-fu practitioners. CONCLUSIONS: Both of these physical activities could be recommended for young adolescents as recreational or rehabilitation programs as they develop specific balance abilities that could be important for improving and maintaining optimal health.

O "Kung Fu" no Brasil na perspectiva dos mestres pioneiros: problemas e perspectivas no uso da história oral como instrumental de análise / The Kung Fu in Brazil by the masters pioneers' view: issues and perspectives in the use of oral history as instrumental analysis

Objetivando analisar a disseminação das artes marciais chinesas no Brasil optamos por entrevistar mestres pioneiros que imigraram da China trazendo na bagagem o "Kung Fu". Ao fazer esta opção em nossa dissertação, tomamos contato com um instrumental que é o uso de entrevistas na perspectiva da História Oral. Remexer a memória, aceitar os silêncios, respeitar o conhecimento construído e desconstruir outros, por si só já se mostram tarefas bastante árduas. Escutar estes mestres nos levou, mesmo que superficialmente, a tentar compreender aspectos da cultura chinesa sob os quais os mestres e o próprio "Kung Fu" se fundamentaram. Entender as lacunas, as dificuldades e as possibilidades do uso da História Oral como ferramenta metodológica é o que neste artigo buscamos, na perspectiva de contribuir com análises semelhantes, seja de outras práticas marciais ou mesmo de outros olhares sobre a cultura chinesa. Assim sendo, objetivamos neste artigo apontar e discutir a metodologia da História Oral e sua pertinência para o estudo das práticas marciais a partir do uso de entrevistas. Podemos, fruto da discussão apresentada, apontar a História Oral como instrumental bastante útil para a discussão das práticas marciais, considerando logicamente, as pertinências e especificidades necessárias para a adequada utilização desta metodologia de pesquisa.

In order to check the spread of Chinese martial arts in Brazil, teachers pioneers who immigrated from China bringing in the Kung Fu were interviewed By making this choice in our dissertation, we contact an instrumental which is the use of interviews in the perspective of Oral History. Rummaging memory, accepting the silences, respecting knowledge built and deconstructing others may be considered as a very arduous task. Listen to these masters took us, even superficially, to try to understand some aspects of Chinese culture which the masters and Kung Fu itself is based on. Understand the gaps, difficulties and possibilities of the use of oral history as a methodological tool is what we seek in this article, in order to contribute to similar analyzes, either of martial practices or even to other perspectives on Chinese culture. Therefore, we aimed to point out and discuss the methodology of oral history and its relevance to the study of martial practices from the use of interviews. The results of the present discussion suggest that the Oral History is a useful instrument for the discussion of martial practices, notably considering the pertinence and specificity for the proper use of this research methodology.

Wavelet transform analysis of electromyography kung fu strikes data.

In martial arts and contact sports strikes are performed at near maximum speeds. For that reason, electromyography (EMG) analysis of such movements is non-trivial. This paper has three main goals: firstly, to investigate the differences in the EMG activity of muscles during strikes performed with and without impacts; secondly, to assess the advantages of using Sum of Significant Power (SSP) values instead of root mean square (rms) values when analyzing EMG data; and lastly to introduce a new method of calculating median frequency values using wavelet transforms (WMDF). EMG data of the deltoid anterior (DA), triceps brachii (TB) and brachioradialis (BR) muscles were collected from eight Kung Fu practitioners during strikes performed with and without impacts. SSP results indicated significant higher muscle activity (p = 0.023) for the strikes with impact. WMDF results, on the other hand, indicated significant lower values (p = 0. 007) for the strikes with impact. SSP results presented higher sensitivity than rms to quantify important signal differences and, at the same time, presented lower inter-subject coefficient of variations. The result of increase in SSP values and decrease in WMDF may suggest better synchronization of motor units for the strikes with impact performed by the experienced Kung Fu practitioners. Key PointsThe results show higher muscle activity and lower electromyography median frequencies for strikes with impact compared to strikes without.SSP results presented higher sensitivity and lower inter-subject coefficient of variations than rms results.Kung Fu palm strikes with impact may present better motor units' synchronization than strikes without.

The effects of height and distance on the force production and acceleration in martial arts strikes.

Almost all cultures have roots in some sort of self defence system and yet there is relatively little research in this area, outside of a sports related environment. This project investigated different applications of strikes from Kung Fu practitioners that have not been addressed before in the literature. Punch and palm strikes were directly compared from different heights and distances, with the use of a load cell, accelerometers, and high speed video. The data indicated that the arm accelerations of both strikes were similar, although the force and resulting acceleration of the target were significantly greater for the palm strikes. Additionally, the relative height at which the strike was delivered was also investigated. The overall conclusion is that the palm strike is a more effective strike for transferring force to an object. It can also be concluded that an attack to the chest would be ideal for maximizing impact force and moving an opponent off balance. Key PointsIt has been determined that the palm strike is more effective than the punch for developing force and for transferring momentum, most likely the result of a reduced number of rigid links and joints.A strike at head level is less effective than a strike at chest level for developing force and transferring momentum.Distance plays an effect on the overall force and momentum changes, and most likely is dependent on the velocity of the limb and alignment of the bones prior to impact.The teaching of self defence for novices and law enforcement would benefit from including the palm strike as a high priority technique.

THE EFFECT OF A NEW EXERCISE PROGRAM INCLUDING TAI CHI CHUAN AND KUNG FU GYMNASTICS ELEMENTS FOR THE PHYSICAL FITNESS OF OLDER SUBJECTS WHO HAVE LOWER PHYSICAL FITNESS / 体力科学

The purpose of this study was to determine whether improved physical fitness through a new exercise program intervention including elements of Tai Chi Chuan and Kung Fu gymnastics among elderly people who have lower physical. Eighty older adults with less physical strength aged 71-89 (mean age±SD=77.3±3.9), recruited from Tsurugaya area of Sendai, participated in a 3-month randomized controlled trial, with allocation to a new exercise program or well-accepted exercise program control. Physical performance measures included the timed up and go test (TUGT), the functional reach test, a 6 min continuous walking test, and the sit-and-reach test were conducted before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed through on-treatment-analysis of variance. After training, although no significant between-groups differences were observed for all the measures, TUGT, which is recommended as a simple screening tool to identify those at risk of falling was improved in both groups following the intervention (P<0.05). The findings revealed that the new exercise program including Tai Chi Chuan and Kung Fu gymnastics element could improve physical fitness to a similar level as the well-accepted exercise program.

Heart rate and blood lactate responses to changquan and daoshu forms of modern wushu.

The development of specific training designed to enhance physiological aspects of performance relies heavily on the availability of accurate and validity physiological data. In the combat sport of Wushu, katas are used to develop aerobic fitness. It is arguably important to assess and monitor heart rate (HR) and lactate (La) responses when designing effective training programs. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate heart rate and lactate responses to forms execution among Wushu combatants. Male elite modern Wushu athletes (n = 4) from a South Brazilian regional team participated in the study. Athletes were aged 22.5 ± 2.08 years old and had at least eight years of Wushu experience. Athletes carried out the Changquan and Daoshu forms in random order, HR and La were measured pre- and post-exercise. Results indicate that HR was 176 ± 3 and 176 ± 2 bpm and La was 4.38 ± 1.3 and 5.15 ± 1.07 mmol·l(-1) for Changquan and Daoshu forms, respectively. There were no significantly differences in HR and La between the two forms. HR values represent 89.2 ± 1.1 and 89.1 ± 1.8% of age-predicted maximal heart rate and lactate was near of 4 mmol·l(-1) point. In conclusion, training programs to Wushu combatants could target the range of physiological values cited above with no differences between two forms. Key PointsHeart rate and lactate responses are not significantly different between Changquan and Daoshu forms for Wushu combatants.The Wushu katas could be used to develop aerobic fitness.