Tai Chi Facts: A Beginner’s Guide
For those who are thrilled in experiencing Tai Chi, it is all possible. Although, there are certain points to remember if you are really thinking of joining the group.
First, know some facts about Tai Chi. Tai Chi and Tai Chi Chuan are not different after all. There might be an additional character on the latter but the meaning stands 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 a medium of self-defense.
Tai Chi Program
The range of the number of students in each class varies but you can expect about 20-30 students in each class. The age factor is between teens and the 90s. This art is not common for children though, because the slow movements will just bore them. But most likely, classes like this target people in their early twenties and so on. Men and women alike can enroll in the class. It is quite seldom to see a men-only or women-only class within a Tai Chi program. Generally, it is much more beneficial if men and women mix because of the energy that elevates inside the class.
Being fit is not a requirement. It’s okay if you are stout, thin, overweight or so. Even those who are permanently attached to their wheelchairs can adapt to the movements of Tai Chi. But certain attention is required. But if you have undergone certain medical treatments, ask your doctor if Tai Chi is really meant for you because if it is contraindicated, might as well drop it. And if your doctor has approved your Tai Chi, tell your teacher about your disability so he can adjust or restrict movements that you can’t handle.
Tai Chi is both an exercise and martial art. But there are teachers that give out only the movements that are purely for health. There would be like at least 80% of those who are engaged in the art embrace the idea of Tai Chi being an art. So if you think that you are the type who needs self-defense more than exercise, you can achieve this in some art that exhibits kung fu actions than health exercises. But if you are the type who wants the best of both worlds, Tai Chi is best for you.
Tai Chi is a form of internal martial art that is characterized by soft movements and is trained to be relaxing and slower at speed than other kinds of martial art.
If you keep on thinking about what to wear in a Tai Chi class, you don’t have to shop for cool clothes. Special clothing is not a requirement. You just have to wear something really comfortable like sneakers, 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.
Things to expect while in a Tai Chi class are Qigong, which means meditation that is done by moving your body, or otherwise in a stationary state. 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. You can also expect the use of weapons like swords.
These will be used in advanced classes and those who enroll are the ones who have already experienced the basics.
DISCLAIMER:
This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
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