TAI CHI

Tai chi initially gained fame as an ancient martial art, and then, in the 20th century, became famous as a healing fitness system. Its praises have been sung by royalty, warriors, doctors, and athletes. With roots in both traditional martial arts and esoteric meditation, tai chi is seen by some as a marriage of ancient kung fu with chinese yoga.

Tai chi is seen in parks, senior centers, and hospitals, as well as mixed martial arts tournaments and fitness centres. It has travelled from farms to temples to caves to palaces and elite military academies. It is seen in movies and on television and is a growing part of popular culture.

Yet, it is still widely misunderstood. There is far more to the ancient art of tai chi than most people realize. There are several major styles of tai chi, each with unique styles of movement, and differing pedagogy. But all styles include deep study of physical, mental, and energetic dynamics. All are practised for health and healing, as martial arts, as moving meditation, as sport, for fitness, for relaxation, and as a means of embodying a philosophy of balance and harmony.

Tai chi has traditionally been popular with people of all ages. The gentle grace and power, as well as the subtle and mysterious nature of this ancient art appeals to a very wide demographic, including men and women of all ages and fitness levels.

In addition, people of different ages are attracted to tai chi for a variety of reasons. Some people like it because it gives them strength, flexibility, agility, and the power to defend themselves against bigger, stronger opponents. Some like it because it helps them to be healthy, and even formidable, no matter what their age. Some like it because it is safe, is graceful, is empowering, tones the body, doesn't require big muscles, and teaches the use of suppleness and sensitivity to overcome brute force.

Athletes of all ages appreciate the intense workout that tai chi can provide, while being adaptable to any fitness level. The will also find that traditional tai chi can strengthen the core, increase flexibility, co-ordination, strength, power, and speed. Many athletes cross train in tai chi for the improvements in performance it offers in such sports as golf, running, skiing, swimming, tennis, football and rugby.

The many health benefits of tai chi chuan are a direct result of the search for an effective martial art. Tai chi chuan grew from an ancient bed of knowledge that included traditional medicine, qigong (Chinese yoga), northern Chinese martial arts, daoist philosophy, and the insights of several very dedicated and gifted people.

Whether you are looking for an effective way to feel better, relax, and improve your fitness, or you wish to learn a profound martial art, then tai chi chuan has a lot to offer you.