Circular nature of the training
All of these core aspects of the art embody the tai chi paradigm in unique ways, with each having its particular focus and strength. To get the most from tai chi training it is best to put equal emphasis on all aspects. All elements are designed to work together to continually educate and refine the practitioner in a virtuous circle of continual development.
Hand form training
This solo training method teaches us to master martial arts shapes and structures, whilst developing ever higher levels of coordination and full body integration. This makes defensive and attacking techniques far more efficient and powerful. There are many health benefits that come from slow,steady and deep hand form training.
Pushing Hands training
This partnered training aspect further develops coordination, structure and shape whilst teaching us how to move in perfect timing with an opponents movements. Touch sensitivity is developed so that our bodies learn to react naturally and spontaneously in an intelligent way to an opponents force or pressure. The entire body becomes a kind of intelligent radar system, so that when at close range we can remain rooted and neutralise an opponent efficiently and effectively.
Self Defence
This aspect of the art teaches you how to skilfully apply all the movements from the hand form. There’s a very wide variety of techniques which encompass vital point striking, grappling, throwing, locking and so on. The exercises are practiced slowly at first against various practical grabs, punches, kicks and so on. As skill develops practice speed increases till you can defend against full speed and power attacks.
Internal Strength (Neigong)
Internal Strength training is for committed students who wish to achieve higher levels of ability. There is a Yin set of exercises which comprises of twelve very specialised exercises designed to build up the health and functioning of the body whilst also developing core power generating skills. These exercises increase relaxation, enhance circulation and are generally therapeutic . A complimentary set of 12 Yang exercises for building tensile strength and power is performed on alternate days. So yin set one day, Yang set the next. This internal power system has been widely sought after throughout Asian Tai Chi practitioners and was kept for only the most diligent disciples.
Weapons
Tai Chi Chuan traditionally trains with three weapons, the sword, sabre and spear. These cover long, medium and short ranges of combat. Each weapon exercises the body in different ways and develops refined footwork, coordination and physical strength and power. The applications can be applied in self defence using everyday objects such as umbrellas or rolled up newspaper etc.
Conditioning
Some additional exercises can be practiced, particularly for those students who are interested in competitions. These build up specific types of fitness, power and strength useful for tai chi martial artists.
