This RCT aimed to assess the usefulness of two interventions in a group rehabilitation medicine setting to determine strategies and exercise guidelines for long-term care of the HIV/AIDS population. Thirty-eight subjects with advanced HIV were randomised to one of three groups: tai chi (TC), aerobic exercise (EX) or control. Experimental groups exercised twice weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcomes included quality of life as measured by the Medical Outcomes Short Form (MOS-HIV) and Spirituality Well-Being Scale. Functional measures included the functional reach for balance, sit and reach for flexibility, and the sit-up test for endurance. The physical performance test was used to determine overall function and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to evaluate psychological changes. To consider the patients’ explanations for these measurements, qualitative data were collected from subjects’ journals, focus groups and non-participant observation. Thirty-eight subjects were included in data analysis. Results of analysis of covariance showed significant changes in the exercise groups in overall functional measures. The MOS-HIV showed a significant difference on the subscale of overall health. The POMS showed significant main effect for time in confusion–bewilderment and tension–anxiety. Three dominant themes emerged from the qualitative data, including positive physical changes, enhanced psychological coping and improved social interactions.