Abstract / Summary
Abstract Background Previous research suggests that slower paces of walking, Tai Chi, Qigong, and other light-intensity physical activities (LIPA) may develop states of relaxation which may have unique effects on blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and oxygen perfusion. Methods A Nonin WristOx 3150 with enhanced motion artifact control was used to record and graph SpO2 in ten members of an older adult Tai Chi group with various chronic conditions, during and for 5 min following slow-paced walking, Tai Chi, and Qigong. Measurements were compared to slow-paced walking in ten participants from a fitness center group reporting good health. Results The Tai Chi group experienced a brief post-activity drop in SpO2 ( M = 22.2 s) before returning to normal levels ( P < 0.001), with mean of 90.20 ± 1.55% following slow-paced walking; 89.30 ± 1.70% following Tai Chi; and 88.40 ± 1.43% following Qigong. No significant change was recorded in the fitness center group. Conclusion The consistent significant momentary drop in SpO2 following each activity in the older adult group may indicate a potential unknown mechanism underlying reported health benefits of these activities, as opposed to motion artifacts or measurement error. It is suggested that the momentary large drop in SpO2 following LIPA in the older adult group may signal a post-activity adjustment and shift in oxygen use. Avenues for further research are suggested, including comparison to other forms of LIPA, as well as to aerobic exercise, sleep, and meditation practices.