The most recognizable aspect of taijiquan training is the slow, graceful routine referred to as the “form”, “set”, or “taolu”. There are, in fact, several different routines that one could learn, ranging from short ten-posture routines to traditional routines with more than one hundred movements. Each style of tai chi has different variations of these.

Each routine combines martial movements with qigong, stretching, balancing, proper posture, and the refinement of subtle body mechanics. The purpose is to improve the health and power of mind, body, and spirit.

Practising a taijiquan routine provides a complete workout, deep relaxation, a clear mind, inner peace, an leaves you feeling both rested and invigorated.

While traditional routines typically took 1-3 years to learn and 20 60 minutes to perform once; modern simplified and standardized routines have been created over the past 50 years that can be learned in a few lessons and performed in 3- 10 minutes.

Each style of taijiquan has its own unique routines with unique characteristics. But the fundamental principles governing how the routines are performed is the same for every traditional style.

These principles include methods of relaxing the body, calming the mind, improving alignment, breathing, balance, and co-ordinating the internal power of mind and body.