Yijinjing Exercise Trial to Compare Physical Performance Against Resistance Training in Sarcopenic Adults

Sarcopenia, characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, significantly impairs mobility and daily activities in older adults. This condition increases the risk of falls, frailty, and reduced quality of life. Current standard-of-care often involves resistance training and nutritional support, which are effective but may face adherence challenges due to intensity, accessibility, or individual preferences. Traditional mind-body exercises like Yijinjing, which integrate specific movements, breathing techniques, and focused attention, offer a potentially gentler, culturally resonant alternative. This study addresses the need for diverse, accessible, and sustainable exercise interventions to combat sarcopenia and improve physical function in aging populations.

This randomized controlled trial will enroll 240 adults aged 50 years or older with sarcopenia across six hospitals in Beijing, China. Participants will be randomized to either a modified seven-form Yijinjing exercise program or resistance training for an initial 6 months. Exercise is scheduled at least three times per week, comprising one supervised group session and two remotely supervised home sessions. Both groups will receive identical dietary counseling and health education. The primary endpoint is physical performance at 6 months, measured by the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), which assesses balance, walking speed, and repeated chair stands. After 6 months, the resistance training group will switch to standard-duration Yijinjing, while the original Yijinjing group will be re-randomized to standard- or longer-duration Yijinjing for another 6 months.