arthwollipot
Observer of Phenomena, Pronouns: he/him
Y'know, this thread was interesting until it descended into a religious war.
magicflute
Thinker
- Joined
- Aug 3, 2001
- Messages
- 210
As someone who began to study Tae Ji Kun (As my sifu pronounced it) in 1966 before most people had even heard of it, and many other martial arts. I can tell you that if my teacher were alive today he would tell you that TAI CHI and TAI CHI CHUAN are two different things. Tai Chi is practiced for health, Tai Chi Chuan is a martial art. and a very effective one. Based on circular techniques used to deflect attacks and effect counter attacks. You opponents strengh is redirected and used against him. Sort of like when you toss something unto a spinning record. Unfortunately I have yet to see any school that teaches the "CHUAN" aspect of Tai Chi in the US and I doubt most instructors that teach now a days are even familiar with it. Someone mentioned "Sticking hands" techniques, in Tai CHi they are used to improve coodination. In Tai Chi Chuan they are used for fighting close up or when blinded. When we practiced, we tied a small ball our shirts, we tried to remove your oponents while keeping him from taking yours. As you became more proficient, this was done blindfolded. This was NOT a choreographed sequence by any means. Sore arms after practice were a common thing. Anyone learning Tai Chi today who thinks they are learning a martial are are sorely mistaken.
Last edited: