Answers to some of your more Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to be fit to learn tai chi?
No, tai chi can be practiced by people at all levels of fitness and at any age. The movements are slow and gentle and will not stress muscles or joints.
Is tai chi a martial art or a system of movements akin to yoga?
Tai Chi is a powerful and subtle martial art and this needs to be understood and accepted in order to gain any benefits from its practice and study. However, whilst the martial aspects are always present, in reality one does not need to embrace any martial philosophies nor will students be called upon to fight each other or take aggressive stances. You are able to study tai chi for exercise and health benefits only if you wish. There are some parallels with yoga in terms of breath control and utilizing chi to promote health but tai chi stands on its own as a purposeful system of martial intent.
What do I need to wear?
There is no ‘special uniform’ nor do you need to wear a silk suit! Clothing and footwear should be comfortable and loose to enable unrestricted movement.
Does the training follow a set syllabus?
No, it is my aim to give students the personalized training they need in order to guide them upon their journey so each lesson is customized to suit individuals. However, if one goes to China to train, the masters will insist on seeing a student’s ‘Short Form’ before allowing them to progress further so I believe that this is the best way to start.
Will I get to learn weapons forms?
Unless you are relatively advanced and can successfully perform at least both of the ‘Short’ and the ‘Long’ Forms, I would not encourage you to begin weapons training as you will not have the requisite control over you own body and reflexes to safely do so!
How long does it take to learn the forms?
You can learn the basic 24 movements of the ‘short form’ relatively easily and quickly and given hard work and lots of practice this can be done in a few months. Mastery of this form, however, can take may years! The 108 movements of the ‘Long Form’ (although many of these are contained within the ‘short form’) will take much longer to learn. Be aware that this is not an easy art form to learn and it is commonly considered that you need the space of two lifetimes to master everything! However, you benefit from tai chi from the moment you start (plus you’ll hopefully enjoy it too!)