Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art. Initially developed for combat and self-defence, for most practitioners it has evolved into a sport and a form of exercise. As an exercise, tai chi is performed as gentle, low-impact movement in which practitioners perform a series of deliberate, flowing motions, This is often referred to as "meditation in motion".
The Name Tai Chi is the most common English spelling however, it's not the standard romanisation of the Chinese name for the art, which is Taijiquan.
- Weapon Practices
- Taolu (Forms) - Set of pre-arranged movements
- Competitions
- Active Meditation
What Is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art with origins in Chen Village and Zhabao Village in Henan. Tai Chi holds roots and beliefs in Taoism, further emphasised throughout the symbol of Yin and Yang and emphasised throughout the movements of softness and hardness.
Tai chi holds many roots within philosophical beliefs, mainly Taoism (Daoism) and Confucian thought, with early texts including embedded quotations from early Chinese classics. Early Tai Chi sources are grounded in Taiji cosmology. Taiji cosmology appears in both Taoist and Confucian philosophy, where it represents the single source or mother of yin and yang. Tai Chi is treated as an internal martial art and has it's main purpose rooted in internal practices and developing a strong sense of self and becoming aligned with naturalness.
The Origins of Tai Chi
Tai Chi's formative influences came from practices undertaken in Taoist and Buddhist monasteries, such as Wudang, Shaolin, and the Thousand Year Temple in Henan. The early development of Tai Chi is connected to Henan's Thousand Year Temple and a nexus of nearby villages:
- Chen Village
- Tang Village
- Wangbao Village
- Zhaobao Town
Some traditionalists claim that tai chi is a purely Chinese art that comes from ancient Taoism and Confucianism. These schools believe that tai chi theory and practice were formulated by Taoist monk Zhang Sanfeng in the 12th century. A research project conducted by the China Sports Commission determined as much, and Wu Tunan also examined Zhang Sanfeng's contribution to Tai Chi in his book "A Study of Tai Chi".
In March 2007, the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles recognised Chenjiagou in Wen County, Jiaozuo City, Henan Province as the birthplace of Chinese Tai Chi. Over the years, they continued to standardise the forms for competition purposes and in the 11th Asian Games of 19190, Wushu was included as an item for competition for the first time, with the "42 form" representing Tai Chi.
The Styles of Tai Chi
In Tai Chi, there are five main styles that are all named after the Chinese families who originated them:
- Chen style - Chen Wangting (1580-1660)
- Yang Style - Yang Luchan (1799-1872)
- Wu/Hao Style - Wu Yuxiang (1812-1880) and Hao Weizhen (1842-1920)
- Wu Style - Wu Quanyou (1834-1902) and his son Wu Jianquan (1870-1942)
- Sun Style - Sun Lutang (1861-1932)
Outside of these five main styles, dozens of new styles, hybrids and offshoots followed, although the family schools are accepted as standard by the international community. Around the world in the 20th and 21st centuries, some Chinese emigrants who had learned Tai Chi in China continued to practice it together in their new communities.
Benefits of Training In Tai Chi
Improves Balance and Coordination
Tai Chi Enhances Stability and reduces the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
Encourages Mindfulness
Today, Tai Chi is a form of "active meditation" and can help foster deep connections between your body and your mind.
Strengthens Muscles and Joints
The gentle movements help maintain flexibility and strength without putting excessive strain on the body.
In conclusion, Tai Chi is far more than a martial art—it is a philosophy in motion, deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and wisdom. Evolving from its origins in combat, it has become a practice celebrated worldwide for its ability to harmonise the body and mind. Whether practised for self-defence, competition, or personal well-being, its slow, deliberate movements cultivate balance, strength, and mindfulness.
