One challenge of beginning a hobby, or any other course of study, is that a true beginner often lacks enough knowledge to know what questions to ask. When that hobby is a new exercise program like tai chi, this can make starting out even more intimidating since doing it wrong can mean risking injury. In the end, though, learning tai chi is like learning any other skill. You find instruction, learn new skills, practice those skills and review them so as to constantly improve.
Step 1
Find instruction in your area. Check with martial arts studios or health clubs that offer martial arts classes. Even if they don't mention tai chi directly in their advertising, many of these places include tai chi instruction as an adjunct to their main schedule of classes. If you don't live in an area that offers tai chi, you can use videos or online resources to get started.
Step 2
Begin with breathing and posture work. Even if your class focuses on other skills first, practice breathing and posture until it becomes second nature.
Step 3
Select a single posture, such as "Parting the Horse's Mane" or "Move Hands as Clouds" that you learn in class. Practice during class, and check with your instructor until you are confident you can practice it correctly at home.
Step 4
Practice that posture 100 times between class sessions. You can practice a posture in isolation or as part of a longer series of postures. As you practice, check your notes or instructional materials every 10 to 20 repetitions to make sure you're doing it right.
Step 5
Check your progress with your instructor or with a senior student. Once you're competent with that posture, focus on another you've learned in class.
Tips and Warnings
- Though it's possible to train on your own with a video, Internet resource or book, there is no substitute for live instruction. Even if you begin by training remotely, continue to look for a teacher who will work with you live.
References
- "Easy Tai Chi"; Dr. Keith Jeffries, 2003
- "You: The Owner's Manual"; Michael Rozien & Mehmet Oz; 2005
- Dave Coffman, Martial Arts Instructor, Bushido Martial Arts, Hillsboro, OR
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