Chronic diseases (or non-communicable diseases) are generally defined as human health conditions that may not have a cure, develop slowly, and require long-term medical management. The major types of chronic diseases include cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes mellitus, cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, degenerative diseases, and neurological disorders. Of note, these chronic diseases are increasingly recognized as the leading cause of death and disability worldwide and cause a substantial economic burden on healthcare and society.

Physical inactivity is increasingly recognized as an important factor in increasing the risk of development of many chronic diseases. In addition, physical activity is widely accepted as an easily accessible solution that can provide health benefits without any side effects, including preventing the onset of chronic diseases or delaying their progression. Traditional Chinese exercises (TCE) have been utilised as part of traditional Chinese medicine for health promotion and symptomatic management of chronic diseases for thousands of years. TCEs mainly consist of Tai Chi and Qigong (Baduanjin, Liuzijue, and Wuqinxi) which possess a similar philosophy - flowing movements are performed in coordination with muscle stretching and relaxation, sleep breathing, proprioceptive awareness (mental focus), and a meditative state of mind. Such unique features have gained increasing popularity worldwide, especially for those suffering from chronic diseases with low exercise intolerance. A few key interventional studies have shown clinically meaningful improvements associated with TCEs among individuals with Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, and heart failure, which indicates that further investigations are needed for other types of chronic diseases like lower back pain, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular, research into elucidating the mechanisms of the potential beneficial effects of TCE is still in its infancy.

The aim of this Special Issue is to gather original research, review articles, consensus statements, and guidelines on traditional Chinese exercise in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. We are particularly interested in manuscripts that report the physiological and psychological effects as well as the underlying mechanisms of traditional Chinese exercise for chronic diseases.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Health economics research of TCEs for chronic diseases
• Clinical studies/trials of TCEs for chronic diseases
• Studies investigating the mechanisms of TCEs for chronic diseases
• Reviews and meta-analysis of TCEs for chronic diseases
• Consensus statement and guidelines of TCEs for chronic diseases