The Chinese characters for Tai Chi Chuan can be translated as the 'Supreme Ultimate Force. It is a powerful form of exercise and one of the most highly effective hand to hand combat systems ever developed. Tai Chi, as it is practiced in the west today, can perhaps best be thought of as a moving form of yoga and meditation combined.

 

The system usually consists of a series of forms which are based on Martial Applications. The way they are practiced and performed in Tai Chi is slowly, softly and gracefully with smooth and even transitions between them. Only when the exponent becomes fluid in the actions, is Fa Ging or explosive energy applied to give them a more deadly application.

For many practicioners the focus in doing them is not, first and foremost, martial, but as a meditative exercise for the body. For others the combat aspects of Tai Chi are of considerable interest. In Chinese philosophy and medicine there exists the concept of 'chi', a vital force that animates the body. One of the aims of Tai Chi is to foster the circulation of this 'chi' within the body, the belief being that by doing so the health and vitality of the person are enhanced. This 'chi' circulates in patterns that are closely related to the nervous and vascular system and thus the notion is closely connected with that of the practice of acupuncture and other oriental healing arts.

Another principle aim of Tai Chi practice is to develop a calm and tranquil mind, through the focused mind concentrating on the precise execution of the Tai Chi movements. Learning to do them correctly develops such things as balance, co-ordination, rhythm of movement, reflex, patience, awareness and good posture as well as developing muscle tone, stamina, strength and mental concentration. Many practitioners notice the benefits of Tai Chi practice in terms of correcting poor postural, alignment or movement patterns which can contribute to tension or injury.

Because the Tai Chi movements have their origins in the martial arts, practicing them will teach you, whether you are aware of it or not, many martial applications. In the two-person exercises called 'pushing hands', the Tai Chi Chuan concepts and principles that allow you to respond effectively and be sensitive to another persons hostile or negative intentions or energy. Pushing hands develops the methods employed to repel an attack, or redirect an attacking force while keeping yourself at a safe distance from the aggressor. Long-time practitioners of Tai Chi can become very skilled Martial Artists. The emphasis in Tai Chi is on being able to channel potentially destructive energy (in the form of a kick or a punch, elbow, knee) away from you and back at the aggressor, by using the aggressors intent and energy against them.