A health psychologist wanted to determine whether tai chi or walking can significantly reduce symptoms for people with arthritis. 40 participants, aged 18 or over and doctor diagnosed with arthritis, self-reported pain and stiffness at the end of a 5-week tai chi course and then at the end of 5 weeks of monitored walking. Lower scores indicated lower pain and stiffness. The measurements of pain and stiffness had MD = 8.5, SD = 21.5. Indicate the independent variable:
- the age of the participants
- the number of weeks of exercise
- the type of exercise
- the level of pain and stiffness