Would diong Tai Chi be an acceptable substitution for daily exercise?

[dinkee]

I have been battling some blood sugar and cholesterol issues as well as some weight gain. In the last 14 weeks I have changed my eating habits and and I walk at least 6 days a week for a minimum of 30 minutes (at my doctors recommendation) . By doing these things I have managed to drop 30 pounds and I feel fantastic. I walk about 2 miles a day now and have even added a back pack with rice and cans for some added resistance. I have been trying alternative exercise such as swimming and bike riding and am now enrolled in a Tai Chi class once a week; on these days, can I skip my walk and consider the Tai Chi exercise or should it not replace my walk since I am not necessarily elevating my heart rate?

[James G Beckerman, M.D.]

Dinkee,

I have a feeling that that walking is probably elevating your heart rate a bit more (and is burning more calories) than Tai Chi - however, it seems like a great idea to incorporate both into your fitness regimen. If you find that you are working hard during the Tai Chi sessions, you could certainly consider alternating between the two.  Given that you are biking and swimming on other days of the week, I imagine that choosing one or the other won't really impact your fitness (or weight) bottom line.  I think the most important thing is that you are keeping it interesting and engaging so that you are more likely to stick with it long term - nice job!

Take care,
Dr. Beckerman
on Twitter @jamesbeckerman

[Jaquta]

I personally would do the walk in addition to the Tai Chi class.  However, on the days you do Tai Chi I would leave the weight behind, at least initially till you become accustomed to the new exercise.  Tai Chi can be a work out in itself and I think you should listen to your body.  If you feel tired, either go for a shorter walk or drop it entirely.

It will be interesting to see what the doctor recommends.

Well done on the weight loss and behavioral changes.

J