Thinking about doing Tai Chi?
Here’s an FAQ answering the most common questions I get!
How can I start Tai Chi?
You can start today by firing up your favourite search engine and looking for a real life Tai Chi class in your local area! (If you live in London, hmu)
Can I learn Tai Chi through video?
A little but mostly no. It’s like trying to learn how to swim by watching a video. Sure, you’ll get some pointers but you can’t feel the water through your screen. Tai Chi is the same. You have to feel it to get it
What kind of shoes should I wear to Tai Chi class?
Short answer: ideally something flat, comfortable, and not too grippy. Long answer: I wrote about Tai Chi footwear here.
How often should I practise Tai Chi?
Depends on your goals. Once a week is better than nothing. Three times a week and you’ll start feeling it. Every day and you’ll start living it. Even ten minutes a day builds up over time. Consistency matters more than duration
What’s the difference between Qigong and Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is basically applied Qigong. All Tai Chi is Qigong, but not all Qigong is Tai Chi. Qigong is like Chinese yoga. Tai Chi is like the martial arts version of that
Can Tai Chi actually be used as a martial art?
Yes but with a big caveat. It takes years, like 10+, and you need a teacher who actually teaches the martial side. If they only talk about energy and never touch structure, timing, or application, you’re not learning the martial part
Is Tai Chi religious or spiritual?
No. It’s not a religion. You won’t have to chant or pray. It can be spiritual if you want it to be, but it’s mainly about balance, awareness, and movement. Tai Chi has roots in Daoism, which you can read more about here.
Tai Chi looks too easy. Is it actually good exercise?
My first Tai Chi teacher always said: Tai Chi is simple but not easy
Trust me, it’s not easy. You can make it very hard on yourself. You can sweat bullets, experience DOMS, and crawl in and out of bed if that’s your goal
Tai Chi looks too hard. Maybe it’s not for me. Should I try it anyway?
I’m biased but... try it! You can make it easier for yourself. A competent teacher will modify the poses for your body and ability. Ask a medical professional if you have any health concerns before starting
Tai Chi is for old people. Why would young people like me do it?
Yeah, a lot of old people do it. But young people can and should. Tai Chi is full of nuance. By the time you’re old, it’s harder to learn. You’ll be old one day anyway. Might as well be a Tai Chi superstar when you get there
If your question wasn’t answered, feel free to contact me!