T'ai Chi Ch'uan

T'ai Chi Ch'uan translates into English as, "Grand Ultimate Fist." T'ai Chi is at least several hundred years old, and probably much older. Unfortunately, there are no reliable written records regarding T'ai Chi's origins prior to the 1700's. There are many conflicting theories as to the exact origins of T'ai Chi; for those interested, I would direct you to Bruce Kumar Frantzis' no-nonsense discussion of T'ai Chi's history in appendix A of his outstanding book, The Power of Internal Martial Arts - Combat Secrets of Bagua, T'ai Chi and Hsing-I. T'ai Chi is what is referred to as an Internal Martial Art, meaning it's original purpose was as a self-defense art which utilizes flexible, pliable force training; energy enhancement and developmental exercises; and superior tactics, strategy and philosophy.

As the name, "Grand Ultimate Fist" implies, the aims of T'ai Chi Ch'uan training transcend mere pugilism. T'ai Chi is a method of total physical, mental/emotional, and spiritual development which is equal parts health nourishing exercise (Chi Kung); philosophy for daily living and personal growth; and a unique method of self-defense training. It was not until the early to mid 1960's that certain teachers in this country began teaching non-Chinese (most notably the great Cheng Man Ching). Since those early days of T'ai Chi in this country, T'ai Chi has blossomed into one of the most highly regarded health-nourishing mind/body disciplines available. T'ai Chi practice is characterized by slow, balanced, graceful movements; proper and natural deep breathing; and a relaxed but aware mental state.

There have been numerous studies done recently which are supporting the ancient Chinese claims as to the extremely salubrious benefits of regular T'ai Chi practice for people of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels. Our curriculum is very broad-based and well defined as we have taught thousands of students since the inception of our T'ai Chi Program in 1977. Students will be exposed to the full range of T'ai Chi Ch'uan training: classic and modern T'ai Chi principles and philosophy and their relationship to daily living and personal growth; warm-up, stretching, strengthening and conditioning exercises; T'ai Chi Chi Kung and T'ai Chi Stepping (footwork) exercises; simple to advanced empty hand, weapons, and two-person forms study; all manner of pushing hands (tui shou) exercises; energy developmental drills and exercises; T'ai Chi Form application study and development; T'ai Chi San Shou (free sparring) practice; as well as other specialized aspects of the Tai Chi system of training (T'ai Chi Ruler, T'ai Chi Mook Jong exercises, etc…).

While T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a complete system of Chi Kung in and of itself, within the body of our T'ai Chi Curriculum are taught many health nourishing Chi Kung exercises. Also, students are taught various Nei Kung standing power developmental exercises, seated meditation techniques, and most importantly, theory, principles, and philosophy of T'ai Chi, Chi Kung, and Nei Kung. The curriculum is structured and taught according to student experience and talent level. There are usually 2 or 3 instructors in each class, so all students get plenty of attention. Students are encouraged and allowed to progress at their own natural rate. In addition to our general curriculum, we hold frequent seminars with the Headmaster, Chief Instructor, and visiting teachers on all aspects of T'ai Chi training, ensuring that the White Lotus T'ai Chi Student receives a very well-rounded T'ai Chi Ch'uan education and experience.