What is the difference between T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Tai Chi and Taijiquan?

None. They are different spellings and shortened versions of the same term (taijiquan is the modern pinyin spelling and tai-chi is sometimes seen too)

What does Tai Chi Chuan mean?

Definitions:
• Tai means "supreme" or "ultimate."
• Chi means "life-force" or "universal energy."
• Chuan means "fist."

Translation: The way of harmony through movement in meditation... or the ultimate fist.

What is the age range in classes?

This varies from class to class but expect a broad range of ages, (teens and 20's up to 80's & 90's) but it is not common for the art to be taught to children as the training is a little slow for their tastes. Some classes are specifically targetted at the over 50's.

Do you have to be fit to start doing Tai Chi?

No, in fact many of the Tai Chi movements can even be adapted to wheelchair users, although some individual attention is required. Do however check with your doctor if you are in any doubt before starting any program of physical exercise. Also let your instructor know of any disability you may have that may restrict your ability to perform certain movements.

What do you wear for Tai Chi?

No special clothing is required but the right outfit can help you move more easily and balance better. Any clothing in which you can move freely is suitable.

Is Tai Chi a health exercise or a martial art?

It is both (although some teachers teach only the health aspects)! Probably 90% of people starting Tai Chi are there purely for their health, but many go on to embrace the complete art. However if all you are interested in is self-defence there are faster ways to achieve this.

Are classes suitable for men and women?

Generally there is a mix of men and women in a class. Women-only classes are a rarity in Tai Chi and it is generally benefical to have a mix of Yin (female) and Yang (male) energy within a class.

I wear orthotics (arch supports). Should I wear them to Tai Chi?

Yes , probably as you may find your muscles shorten when you don't wear them, however opinion is divided on this and some find they can eventually stop wearing them. You will find you need more supportive footwear than kung fu slippers though.

I've heard that Tai Chi is an internal martial art?

Taijiquan is one of the three Chinese Internal martial arts (neijia). The other two being Xing I Quan and Ba Gua Zhang. It is a characterized by soft relaxed movements and trained at a slower speed than other martial arts.

My legs are weak, and I sometimes use a wheel chair. Can I do Tai Chi?

Yes, but first check with your health care professional. You'll be able to do all the upper body movements, and some of the leg motions can be adapted.

Tai Chi seems so relaxing. Is it really a martial art?

Yes. There are two basic types of martial arts: the hard martial arts and the soft (or internal) martial arts. The former includes karate and kung fu. Tai Chi is a soft one, emphasizing relaxation -- for many, it is a form of meditation. Nevertheless, Tai Chi movements, like those of other martial arts, are executed with careful precision and grace.

Since practicing Tai Chi, my blood pressure has gone down. Can I go off my medicine?

That's something to ask your health care professional. Generally, though, Tai Chi is considered an adjunct therapy -- one that works best in partnership with other approaches. And you should tell your health care professional you are trying Tai Chi.

My arthritis makes exercise painful. Why should I try Tai Chi?

People with painful, stiff joints usually want to avoid exercise. But exercise actually keeps bones, muscles, and joints healthy and as strong as possible. Tai Chi is gentler than most other exercises, and it can be modified to fit your special needs. Tai Chi helps strengthen the muscles around an arthritic joint, improves flexibility and increases range of motion; it may also relieve some of your joint pain.

If Tai Chi is rooted in Taoism, does that make it a religious practice?

No. Although many people use it as a spiritual discipline, many others participate for health reasons. In that sense, it's like yoga. It doesn't have to be part of your religious beliefs at all, nor conflict with your religious practices.

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