Tai chi is the common abbreviation for Tai chi chuan (Taijiquan, T’ai chi ch’üan, Tàijíquán, 太極拳, 太极拳) .
Tai chi chuan (literally “Supreme duality martial art”) is the martial art / exercise system based on an understanding of the dualistic nature of the universe.
Etymology
Chuan (“quan”, 拳, “quán”) literally means “fist” and can refer to boxing or martial arts.
Tai chi (Taiji (太极; 太極; tàijí; ‘supreme polarity’) is the name of a conceptualization of the dualistic nature of the phenomenal universe. It is referenced in various philosophies, martial arts, medical traditions, and scientific treatises. It is a key concept in taoism (daoism), Chinese Buddhism, and Confucianism. For more details, see “philosophy” below.
Elements
There are many who think of tai chi as a slow moving dance, or a moving meditation, or “old people sneaking up on trees.” These people have likely only seen the art’s characteristic slow moving routine, called a “form” (Chinese: 套路; tàolù). But there is much more to the art than simply learning the “tai chi moves.”
Basic exercises: While many schools start teaching the form to beginners on the first day, there are several types of basic exercises designed to teach flexibility, stable stances, agility, proper arm movements, integration of body movements, balance, etc.
Internal Energy Training (“Neigong” or “Qigong”) (“internal skills” often called “qigong” (say “chee gong”)
The refinement of posture, breath, relaxation, visualization, subtle awareness, and internal energy. (note: the term “energy” has a broad and complex definition, and encompasses many subtle mental and physiological processes and characteristics.
Forms / Routines (套路; tàolù):
The most recognizable element of tai chi is the slow-moving routine that forms the primary context for cultivating the subtle and profound benefits of the art.
Pushing hands (推手; Tuishou):
A two-person exercise which develops profound sensitivity, awareness, internal power, subtle neutralizing skills, and the ability to use softness to overcome brute force.
Martial Applications
While forms teach the proper structure and movement, and pushing hands teaches the correct method of engaging an opponent, martial applications teach the actual techniques that can result from proper structure and method. These techniques can include joint control, pressure point manipulation, striking, throws, and more.
Two-person routines
Some styles include sophisticated choreographed routines performed with a partner.
Advanced Self Defence training