Chi Machine Exercise

The manufacturers of the Chi Machine claim that it provides a "passive exercise" experience in order to increase the user's circulation, move her joints, and invigorate her vital energy or "chi." Although the Chi Machine does vigorously shake the user, as of 2010 there are no scientific or alternative medical reasons for using it. You can access any of the benefits the manufacturer attaches to the Chi Machine through other means.

Features

The Chi Machine is a compact device with two holders for your ankles. You lie down on the floor, placing your ankles on top of the holders. Turning the machine on produces a vigorous, steady oscillating movement from side to side, which shakes your entire body for between four and 20 minutes, depending on your preference, according to the website of Chi Machine International.

Claims

Chi Machine International online claims that their device oxygenates your body via something they call "passive aerobic exercise." They also suggest that the machine improves the circulation of lymph fluid throughout the body, creating a detox effect. Improved joint mobility, spinal alignment, stress relief and improved organ function are all a part of the machine's list of benefits. The "chi" from which the machine takes its name apparently accompanies the sense of "tingling" that users experience once the shaking session is over.

Issues

Simple shaking by a machine will not produce an aerobic benefit, increased flexibility or the circulation of chi. In order to achieve the benefits of exercise, your only option is to actively engage in it. This principle is especially true if you want to exercise your chi. In eastern meditation and chi cultivation practices, one of the primary ideas is that chi follows thought. "Where you put your attention is where your qi goes," notes Synthia Andrews, bodywork therapist and co-author of "Acupressure & Reflexology for Dummies." In addition to improving your circulation and flexibility, exercises such as qigong and tai chi provide a mental focus that gives direction to your chi --- something the Chi Machine doesn't offer.

Alternatives

If you're looking for a solution to stiff joints and poor circulation, simple range of motion exercises can help, according to the University of Washington department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine online. They recommend a series of movements for each body part and joint that you can perform throughout the day to gradually increase your flexibility. If you have a serious circulation issue and require help getting started, a physical therapist might be able to help. Physical therapy helped one patient with stage two and three lymphedema improve significantly, according to a 2010 study by Revenda Greene at Howard University, published in the journal "Physiotherapy Theory and Practice." The patient experienced limb size reduction after receiving skin care, external pressure, exercise instructions and massage, a plan tailor-made for her condition and sensitivities.

Considerations

If you want to experience the benefits of exercise and learn how to increase the circulation of chi, sign up for a tai chi class. Although tai chi does take a long time to learn, most students feel a marked improvement in their well-being after just one lesson. The website Tai Chi Central maintains a database of tai chi schools worldwide.