BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The relationship between seated exercise frequency and physiological changes in older adults has received insufficient research attention. We examined how Baduanjin session frequency, Baduanjin instructional format, and low-intensity resistance training affect the body composition, muscle strength, and gait parameters of older adults. METHODS: A prospective, cluster-randomised, controlled, two-arm trial was conducted at day care centres for older adults in Taiwan over 12 weeks between May and September 2024. The experimental group received a multicomponent seated Baduanjin intervention which included online and in-person sessions and additional resistance training, whereas the control group completed only the online Baduanjin sessions. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Muscle strength of the upper and lower extremities was measured using handheld dynamometers. Gait parameters were evaluated using GaitUp wearable motion sensors. RESULTS: Linear mixed-effects analysis revealed significant between-group differences in grip strength, gait speed, cadence, and load ratio after 12 weeks (p < 0.05). The experimental group maintained their functional abilities, whereas the control group experienced marked declines. No significant changes were observed in skeletal muscle index, body fat percentage, or isometric knee extensor force over the intervention period. Additionally, the foot-flat ratio significantly decreased in the experimental group (p = 0.004) but increased in the control group (p = 0.011); the between-group difference was significant (B 5.28, 95% confidence interval 2.14 to 8.41, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The multicomponent seated Baduanjin intervention was more effective than the once-weekly Baduanjin sessions in improving physical outcomes. Thus, Baduanjin is a safe, feasible, and beneficial. intervention for older adults. This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration No. NCT06550661) on 6 August 2024.

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