Effects of Tai Chi Fan Training on Impulsivity and Inhibitory Control in Patients with Substance Use Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial
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https://doi.org/10.31489/3081-0531/2026-3-5/25-31Keywords:
Tai Chi Fan, substance use disorder, impulsivity, inhibitory control, randomized controlled trial.Abstract
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of a 12-week Tai Chi Fan (TCF) program on impulsivity and inhibitory control among individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Methods: Forty male patients undergoing compulsory rehabilitation were randomly assigned to either a TCF intervention group (n = 20; 60 min/session, 3 sessions/week) or a control group (n = 20) receiving routine care. Impulsivity and inhibitory control were assessed using the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) and the Stroop task, respectively. Results: Compared with the control group, the TCF intervention group showed a significant reduction in total BIS-11 scores (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the intervention group demonstrated significantly shorter reaction times and higher accuracy in the Stroop incongruent condition, with significant group × time interactions (p < 0.001). Conclusion: A 12-week TCF program was associated with reduced impulsivity and improved inhibitory control among male patients with SUD undergoing compulsory rehabilitation. As a structured mind–body exercise, TCF may represent a potential non-pharmacological adjunct to addiction rehabilitation.
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