Tai Chi Chuan is a traditional Chinese martial art that is today better known for its health benefits. Originally it was a form of kung fu that translates as "Grand Ultimate Fist." As one of the traditional internal styles of kung fu, or neijia, tai chi focuses on developing your "chi," or internal energy. While the existence of chi is debated, in practice it means that you will work on your posture and your ability to relax and move smoothly. Chen style tai chi is one of the oldest branches of this martial art.
Step 1
Find a Chen style tai chi class. There are many styles of tai chi, but Chen is the original, featuring lower stances and powerful and explosive movements along with the gentle movements associated with tai chi. It is considered harder to master than newer, more popular forms such as Yang style.
Step 2
Make sure your instructor is well qualified. Tai chi is filled with small details and the slightest alteration of posture can make all the difference, so having an experienced teacher who can correct you is important. It is not an art that you can reliably teach yourself through instructional videos or books.
Step 3
Practice as often as you can. You should be able to focus on your movements as opposed to what technique comes next. Tai chi is an internal martial art, so feeling and controlling your body's movements are central to your practice.
Step 4
Concentrate on staying relaxed in your movements. You should try and develop the feeling of rootedness, of being connected to the ground and feeling your body. Learning to control your posture and awareness will improve your tai chi practice and your health in general.
Step 5
Learn the other applications of tai chi. Tai chi training also includes self defense training where you learn how to move with someone else, allowing you to further develop your skills and physical and mental control. It also includes chi kung training, a breathing practice that can improve mental and physical health and awareness.
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