Topics for First Class in Tai Chi
Answer Basic Questions
- Why tai chi?
- This is not "monkey see; monkey do"
- Tai chi is a martial art
- Mental and physical
- Balance
- Clothing
Rule Number 1:
Keys to Success in Learning Tai Chi:
- Take notes
- Ask questions
- Practice twice daily
- Practice in a group
- Help each other
- Cheat
- Fake it until you make it
- Start the set so you will be in a position to see details of a specific move
Basic Practices
- Tai Chi Breathing
- Tai Chi Stance
- Tai Chi Walk
Beginner Lessons
- Basic Practices, Move #1
- Move #2, positioning for Move #3
- Move #3
- Single Whip - Lower body only
- Single Whip - full movement
- Raise Hands
- White Crane Cools Its Wings
- Strum the Pipa
- Crossover moves
- The Wave
- The Rest of First Set
- Closing practices, circle meditation/energy
Higher Level Lessons
- Coordinate breathing with all moves
- Smooth transistions
- Linear ebb and flow
- Counterrotating knees
- 4-part breakdown of lower body movement
- Rotational ebb and flow (intro)
- Pelvic scoop
- Heel trigger
- Rotational ebb and flow (reprise)
- Foot positioning for power
- Customing stance