Tai Chi Martial Arts

It general takes 6 to 7 months to learn the long form if attending class twice a week, 12 months if attending once a week. Of course it will take longer if you do not practice everyday. The amount of time it will take you to learn any new skill will depend on the amount you spend developing it.

A doctor should all ways be consulted prior to starting any exercise program. Tai Chi has been helpful to people with various conditions. There have been several studies on the effects of Tai Chi on both medical and mental conditions. For every study that shows a positive results there is a study that  shows no measurable effect. However, practitioners of Tai Chi consistently have a greater range of motion in the joints, greater strength and better balance. The only certainty is that the studies have shown that Tai Chi does no harm if learned from a qualified instructor. It has proven to be a good form of exercise for people that otherwise cannot exercise due to advance age or medical conditions.

It will depend on your background. A person with a martial arts background or formal dance training can learn given enough time. The problem occurs when one cannot ask questions to clarify movements. Much of Tai Chi is based on feel. This cannot be demostrated on a tape or explained in words alone. No matter how many times one sees a picture of the Grand Canyon, it is not the same as a visit.

In anciet times, the Chinese described the body's life force as Chi. Chi is the energy that flows throught the body. Chi Kung is a series of exercises designed to recharge the Chi energy of the body.

Weapons are taught but only after the student has demostrated the skills necessary to preform both the Long Form and Short Form. Weapons are an extension of the body. Unless a person can move properly without the weapon, they will never be able to move with a weapon.

Yes, Tai Chi is a very effective fighting style. However, over the last 200 years, Tai Chi has been modified and taught for the health benefits.

Yes, the Classical writings of Tai Chi states that Tai Chi must be practiced once in the morning and again in the evening.

No it is not. Tai Chi is a martial arts. The fighting style  was based on theories taken from Chinese philosophy found in the I Ching, Book of Changes. The popular Ying/Yang symbol has been incorporated into the modern culture. Different versions of Tai Chi are used by religious organizations, hippies and the New Age movement but this does not mean that Tai Chi is a religion, nor does it mean that Tai Chi is a Rock Band or Surfing Club.