Core training elicits greater improvements than flexibility training in jumping lotus kick performance and physical attributes of Tai Chi athletes: A randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT: Tai Chi's intricate, balance-intensive techniques, such as the Jumping Lotus Kick (JL Kick), demand both core stability and flexibility. Despite their importance, direct empirical comparisons of these training effects on Tai Chi performance remain limited. This study aimed to compare the impacts of an eight-week core stability regimen versus flexibility training on JL Kick proficiency and related physical attributes in Tai Chi athletes. In this randomized controlled trial, thirty-nine male athletes (ages 17-21) were allocated into core stability (n = 13), flexibility (n = 13), and control groups (n = 13). Performance metrics were assessed at baseline, midpoint, post-intervention, and at 12-week follow-up to capture both immediate and sustained effects. Core stability training yielded notab

SUBMITTER: Li F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12725596 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature