For individuals seeking accessible and effective ways to manage high blood pressure, a traditional Chinese mind-body practice known as Baduanjin offers a promising alternative to brisk walking, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC). Researchers found that practicing Baduanjin, a series of eight coordinated movements combined with focused breathing and meditation, lowered blood pressure as effectively as walking – and the benefits were sustained for up to a year.
High blood pressure, a major preventable risk factor for heart disease, affects an estimated 120 million U.S. Adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control, and Prevention. While clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of regular physical activity, adherence to exercise programs can be challenging. Baduanjin presents a potentially scalable solution, requiring minimal space, no equipment, and only basic instruction.
Baduanjin, which translates to “eight brocades,” is a widely practiced exercise routine in China, typically taking 10-15 minutes to complete. It integrates aerobic, isometric, flexibility, and mind-body components, making it a low- to moderate-intensity activity suitable for many adults. “Given its simplicity, safety and ease at which one can maintain long-term adherence, baduanjin can be implemented as an effective, accessible and scalable lifestyle intervention for individuals trying to reduce their blood pressure,” explained Jing Li, MD, PhD, senior author of the study and Director, Department of Preventive Medicine, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing, China.
The research, the first large, multicenter randomized trial to examine the impact of Baduanjin on blood pressure, followed 216 participants aged 40 and older with stage 1 hypertension – defined as a systolic blood pressure of 130-139 mm Hg, as per the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) High Blood Pressure Guideline. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Baduanjin practice, self-directed exercise, or a brisk walking program, all for a 52-week period.
Baduanjin’s Impact on Blood Pressure
The study revealed that practicing Baduanjin five days a week resulted in a reduction of approximately 3 mg Hg in 24-hour systolic blood pressure and 5 mg Hg in office systolic blood pressure, compared to self-directed exercise. These reductions were observed at both three months and one year and are comparable to the effects seen with some first-line medications. Importantly, Baduanjin demonstrated a comparable safety profile and effectiveness to brisk walking over the course of a year.
A key finding was the sustained benefit of Baduanjin even without ongoing monitoring, addressing a common challenge in maintaining long-term adherence to lifestyle interventions. This suggests that individuals can readily incorporate Baduanjin into their routines and continue to reap the cardiovascular benefits independently.
A Validated Ancient Practice
Harlan M. Krumholz, MD, FACC, Editor-in-Chief of JACC and the Harold H. Hines, Jr Professor at the Yale School of Medicine, highlighted the significance of the research. “Baduanjin has been practiced in China for over 800 years, and this study demonstrates how ancient, accessible, low-cost approaches can be validated through high-quality randomized research,” he said. “The blood pressure effect size is similar to that seen in landmark drug trials, but achieved without medication, cost or side effects. This makes it highly scalable for community-based prevention, including in resource-limited settings.”
The 2025 ACC/AHA High Blood Pressure Guideline, published in JACC, reflects the latest research and evidence since 2015, replacing the previous version from 2017. The guideline addresses a range of topics, including secondary forms of hypertension and lifestyle approaches to blood pressure management. More information about the updated guidelines can be found on the JACC website.
What’s Next for Baduanjin Research?
While this study provides compelling evidence for the benefits of Baduanjin, further research is needed to explore its potential applications in diverse populations and healthcare settings. Investigating the optimal frequency, duration, and intensity of Baduanjin practice could further refine its effectiveness. Studies examining the mechanisms by which Baduanjin lowers blood pressure – such as its impact on the autonomic nervous system and inflammation – could provide valuable insights.
The findings offer a promising avenue for promoting accessible and sustainable blood pressure management strategies, particularly in communities where traditional exercise programs may be less feasible. Share your thoughts on this ancient practice and its potential benefits in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.