China wants to use qigong to train 'super pilots'

A scientific report in China said that pilots who practiced qigong had superior health and endurance compared to the control group.

Chinese pilots fly JL-10 trainer aircraft in Guangdong province

Interesting Engineering reported on December 13 that China is using an ancient method to train pilots, hoping to help them have superior abilities in case they have to fly stealth fighters into battle.

Accordingly, the Eight-Section Brocade Qigong is being practiced by a group of 50 of the country's top fighter pilots, including many pilots from fighter squadrons on aircraft carriers.

They use this training method to tap into the body's vital energy source, qi, to improve muscle growth.

According to a recent report published in the Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine , people who practiced qigong saw an average 15% increase in the thickness of important muscle groups, including the back and waist muscles.

Their training is intense, dealing with situations like working with drones.

To meet the demands of future high-tech air combat, their daily training intensity surpasses that of US pilots, posing unprecedented challenges to their physical endurance, according to the South China Morning Post .

Qigong is a traditional Chinese form of mind-body training and meditation that uses slow, precise body movements with controlled breathing and mental focus to improve balance, flexibility, muscle strength and overall health.

Developed in China, Eight Section Brocade is a Chinese qigong practice with a history of over 800 years. The method reflects the interaction between symmetrical physical postures and movements, mind and breathing exercises in a harmonious way. The main focus is on releasing energy within the body with the aim of creating many health benefits.

Previous studies have confirmed that practicing Eight Section Brocade benefits quality of life, sleep quality, balance, grip strength, trunk flexibility, blood pressure, and heart rate.

The report said that many pilots suffered from neck, shoulder, and back pain before training. However, after practicing qigong, their symptoms were significantly reduced.

Their exercise tolerance also decreased by nearly 20% compared to the control group, while their waist strength increased by a third. Better spinal stability is a must for pilots, who need to maintain a seated position for long periods of time even in harsh flying conditions.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/trung-quoc-muon-dung-khi-cong-dao-tao-sieu-phi-cong-18524121314543789.htm