Tai Chi Exercise
Before You Start

in the tai chi exercise getting started area: questions on this page
frequently asked questions areas index of the questions answered |  different types of tai chi |  individual abilities and limitations |  about the tai chi exercises |  benefits of tai chi |  how to get started |  finding lessons and what to expect
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'Start your Tai Chi exercise - now - today!'

It's a real temptation to point you straight off to the exercise pages. It could really be that easy - just go to tai chi exercise and have a go.

But let's face it. You know yourself better than we do. So if you are tempted to get started now - please remember to read the tai chi exercise techniques and ask yourself if you need to consult your health care provider before you start.


Getting Started with Tai Chi and Qi Gong


Tai Chi exercise getting started index


What equipment do I need to practice Tai Chi?

The great news is that you don't need any special equipment to practice the Tai Chi forms. You don't even need a lot of space - as long as you can stretch your arms fully out to the side and above your head - you'll be able to do the majority of the Qi Gong exercises.

Any loose, comfortable clothing will do - and remember to take off or loosen tight belts and watch straps.

Tai Chi exercise, especially the martial arts forms, and some of the Qi Gong exercises require standing on one leg or doing 360 degree turns.

So, for us, one of the most important things is taking care when choosing what to wear on your feet. You need flat-soled shoes that are flexible and not too slippy in case you overbalance. And you don't want them to be too 'sticky' so that you end up with your foot stuck to the floor and your knee turning - too much pressure on the joint.

Old fashioned gym shoes (UK); plimsolls or boat shoes are suitable, as are dance or ballet shoes. Or you could practice in your bare feet but watch out for anything that could cut your skin.

If you wear any kind of foot support you will probably still need it - there is a tendency for Tai Chi beginners to bend their knees too far - so you might need to be extra careful about your posture.

If you are really keen there is a range of specialised Tai Chi shoes that we have heard about - but not tried yet.

If you move on to specialised Tai Chi forms you might need swords, fans and sabres. If you do the Qi Gong / Tai Chi Ball forms you will need a ball about the size of a bowling ball.

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How can I get started with my Tai Chi exercise?

The best way to get started is to find a good teacher and just go to a Tai Chi class or pick up a video.

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There are no Tai Chi teachers near me - now what?

If you can't find a good teacher or can't attend class then you can learn from books and videos.

Or you could always just go and try our Tai Chi exercise instructions - take me to the Tai Chi exercise instructions and work your way through our advice and examples.

Any exercise done the wrong way has the potential to cause damage. Tai Chi exercise is no different in that respect.

If you do decide to work on your own it's really important that you protect your knees and back by following the posture guidelines at the beginning of the exercise instructions.

Click here to see the basic guidelines


There are also lots and lots of books and videos on Tai Chi some good, some bad and some downright dangerous.

Many of the ones we've seen only make sense if you understand the basics of Tai Chi forms and moves.

So we've created a review section for the Tai Chi books and videos and you can read what we think about the ones we've come across. our video recommendations

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Could a video or book on Tai Chi help?

For beginners a good Tai Chi or Qi Gong video (depending on where you want to start) can be invaluable. It can show you what the movements look like and put you in a better position to understand what you see when you go looking at teachers and classes.

Some local public libraries have Tai Chi and Qi Gong videos that you borrow or hire.

For intermediate or advanced practitioners, a Tai Chi video can help your memory and practice by leading you through the sequences. They also help if you want to look at different styles and techniques.

We've created a review list of Tai Chi and Qi Gong videos, CD Roms and computer ebooks we've watched. Read what we think our video recommendations

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What videos and books do you recommend?

We've created a review section for Tai Chi books and videos and you can read what we think about the ones we've come across. our book recommendations


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Enjoy your Tai Chi ...