Tai Chi Facts: A Beginner’s Guide
For those who are excited about experiencing Tai Chi, there are alot of benefits. Before joining a group, there are some basic things to know. First, it will be helpful to know a few facts about Tai Chi. Tai Chi and Tai Chi Chuan are not that different. There might be an additional character added on the latter but the meaning is basically the same, Tai Chi is just the shorter version. Tai Chi Chuan means “Supreme Ultimate Fist”. It is derived from a series of Kung Fu techniques so it can be applied as both a therapeutic activity and as a medium of self-defense.
Typical classes range in the number of students but typically you can expect about 20-30 students in each class. The age group varies and is anywhere between teens and all the way up to people in their 90s. This art is not typically common for younger children though, because the slow movements are generally too boring for them. Men and women alike can enroll in classes. It is rare to see a men-only or women-only class within a Tai Chi program as it is much more beneficial with both groups because of the energy that elevates inside the classes.
Being fit is not necessarily a requirement. It’s perfectly okay if you are overweight, thin, etc. Even those who might be restricted to their wheelchairs can adapt to the movements of Tai Chi. With that said, a certain amount of attention is still required. If you have undergone certain medical treatments, be sure to ask your doctor if Tai Chi will be beneficial for you because if it is contraindicated, you should not participate. If your doctor has approved of your Tai Chi, be sure to inform your teacher about your specific disability so he or she can adjust or restrict movements that you can’t handle.
Tai Chi is both an exercise and a martial art, and is a form of internal martial art that is characterized by soft movements. It is trained to be at a relaxing and slower speed than other kinds of martial arts You will find certain teachers that will only give out the movements that are purely for health purposes. So if you think that you are the type who needs self defense more than exercise, you can achieve this in some form that exhibits Kung Fu actions rather than just health exercises. If you are the type who wants the best of both worlds, Tai Chi is best for you.
If you wonder what to wear in a Tai Chi class, you don’t have worry or to shop for special clothing, it is not a requirement. You just have to wear something really comfortable like sneakers, loose fitting T-shirts and jogging pants. Remember, it must be something that would allow you to move freely while performing every move. Never wear jeans or any constrictive clothing as it defeats the purpose.
Things to expect while in a Tai Chi class are Qigong, which means meditation that is done by moving your body. Push hands or what is known as tui shou, is an exercise that requires two persons who exchange energy by performing movements leveled with each other. These kinds of classes are typically advanced so you can usually expect the use of weapons like swords.