Barriers, Facilitators, and Sustainers in Tai Ji Quan Practice: A Mixed-Methods RE-AIM Assessment of College Students Versus the General Population

in Journal of Physical Activity and Health

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Sida Chen School of Journalism and Communication, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, FJ, China

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Zixue Tai School of Journalism and Media, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2007-7692
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Jianping Liu School of Journalism and Communication, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, FJ, China

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2022-0354
Keywords:
tai chi; public health; martial arts; physical exercise; RE-AIM
First Published Online:
06 Feb 2023
In Print:
Volume 20: Issue 3
Page Range:
239–249
Restricted access

Background: Tai Ji Quan (TJQ) has broad appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. This study aimed to examine a variety of individual and environmental factors in the dissemination of TJQ to diverse practicing communities in China. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilized in the research design. Quantitative data were collected via an online survey using a national sample (N = 737), whereas qualitative data came from focus groups and in-depth interviews. Analysis was performed along the RE-AIM dimensions of reach, efficacy, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. Results: We divided TJQ experience into 4 distinct categories (nonlearners, current learners, quitters, and retainers) and observed significant patterns of variation along lines of occupation groups and age cohorts. A significant male/female difference was detected in TJQ experience among college students but not the general public, and having practicing family members was an important predictor of personal TJQ history. Varied TJQ experience has a significant impact on perceptions of TJQ’s miscellaneous values as well as level of satisfaction with its health outcomes. Conclusions: Both individual (personal) and environmental (settings) factors are important in shaping personal decisions in TJQ engagement. An ecological approach coordinating individual factors and settings resources is essential in promoting TJQ to the general population.

Tai https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2007-7692

Liu (1036@mju.edu.cn) is corresponding author.

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