Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Exercise for Obesity and Overweight: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND: Traditional Chinese exercises can improve obesity and overweight, but there are few reports on the differences in the effects of multiple them in improving obesity and overweight. We compared the effects of multiple them on individuals with obesity and overweight to find the optimal intervention. METHODS: The following databases were searched: PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, and so on. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of multiple traditional Chinese exercise interventions were included. Network meta‐analysis (NMA) was performed using Stata 15.0 based on the frequency frame. RESULTS: In the NMA, the results of body mass index were as follows: Baduanjin > Yijinjing > Wuqinxi > Tai Chi > control. The results of waist circumference (WC) were as follows: Baduanjin > Wuqinxi> Tai Chi > control. The results of waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) were as follows: Tai Chi > Baduanjin> Control. The results of body fat percentage were as follows: Baduanjin > Tai Chi > Yijinjing > Control. CONCLUSION: Among the four treatments, Baduanjin has better fat loss effects and represents a better treatment for weight loss in individuals with obesity and overweight. Tai Chi was more effective in improving WHR and may be the best method to lose fat while increasing muscle. Trial Registration: CRD42023472216