Product Description
The Chi Beginning is a beginner's text and a self help reference, for balancing one's own energy (qi) and learning the Simplifed 24 Posture Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan). The material presented can be used for attaining better health and for building a proper foundation for further Tai Chi Chuan practice.1. Tai Chi Beginning is clearly written and very user friendly.2. The write up, design, and layout of this book all keeps the beginner in mind.3. It includes Tai Chi Chuan photographs taken from the learner's perspective to simplify the learning process.4. The photographs are also arranged in an easy to follow manner with movement arrows and charts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Very easy to follow
This book is better than I had hoped for. It has lots of pictures, and good instructions. Great for beginning Tai Chi.

RECOMMENDED for beginners to advanced.
The daunting challenge of translating eastern art into western English is well-met by this volume. Perfect for students and for teachers, straight from the sources. Particularly good with the companion video. Supports classic principles.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for beginners to advanced. Teachers will enjoy this as a text for lessons.

If you can get your hands on it, get it and study it!

amazing and invaluable reference guide for students
First of all I don't believe this book is a do it yourself/alone teaching manual.It's a very detailed and informative reference guide for someone studying with a qualified teacher.The book is meant to guide you in the learning process and is not meant to be your sole guide to Tai Chi.I recently began my study of Tai Chi and found this book as an invaluable help to my understanding and practice.It's required reading meant for the serious beginner.

an alright book
As a beginner, I don't have a lot of experience at Tai-chi, but I feelthis book was useful. However, most of the pictures are taken from theback, and while some have an insert showing the action from the front also,most do not, and it is very frustating trying to guess where his hands arewhen you can only see the model's back. I feel it is still a good book andmay yet be a good giude to learning Tai-chi. In attempting to hold the bookflat and open to a page while I practice, I have noticed that the book isfalling apart already. It has a textbook price and a pamphlet like binding.For this reason and because the pictures are taken from the back at times,I felt three stars was reasonable. ... Read more

Product Description
Recommended by ALA's Booklist, this popular volume illustrates Tai Chi movements with 590 photographs and 290 illustrations. An excellent book for those seeking an alternative form of exercise. Over 75,000 sold. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Tai Chi: Ten Minutes to Health
One of the best books ever on the Tai Chi long form. Whilst it is a fairly old publication it is timeless. The steps are clear and concise. This book has more information per page than any other book I have read and DVD I have seen. It is worth every cent and is totally under estimated and under valued!

Wonderful book for the self-taught
The illustrations and pictures showing the position of the hands and feet are VERY useful to those self-teaching.Far more so than most books and videos on this subject.However, over and over I found that reference to the words and meaning of the introduction was essential to the learning process and answered issues such as breathing and martial arts potential of the exercise

Very detailed Long Form
This book has great instructions on the movements of the Yang Style LONG Form.The one problem is that there is no discussion of the martial application of the form.

best book so far
this book gives detailed illustrations.It still misses on how to breath.But this is the best i have seen, including videos.Something is always left out of all them.This book is easy to follow and helps illustrate proper positioning of arms and legs. ... Read more

Product Description
Have you ever seen an action-packed kung fu movie? Have you seen people moving their bodies in the calm motions of tai chi in a park on a Saturday morning? You might not think these two practices have much in common, but they do. They are both styles of the ancient Chinese martial arts of wushu. Discover the sports in which the "hard and stron ... Read more

Product Description
A book on Tai Chi Chuan. ... Read more

Product Description
A step-by-step teaching plan with more than 1200 photographs and illustrations ... Read more

Product Description
More than a step-by-step description of movements--it also presents a methodical way for Westerners to appreciate and master the subtleties of the art. Illustrated. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Doesn't provide a useful description of the movements
I've been taking T'ai Chi classes for several months and I bought this book hoping that it would supplement my instruction.I have an excellent teacher but there are so many elements to each movement that I thought it would help to have static images that I could examine at my leisure.I haven't found this book useful in that respect.The main problem is that it's not clear how the pictures relate to the written descriptions of the movements.Even for sections of the form that I know very well I am often unable to figure out which movement the pictures are trying to convey.

Good general information, poor form instruction.
It is not possible for me to study Tai Chi with a master so I must relay on books and video tapes to learn the forms.The Tai Chi Workbook lacks sufficient graphic information about the postures and transitions to enableme to do this.McFarlan's book, while lacking the general information,does a much clearer job of demonstrating the form.

An excellent, thoughtful introduction
Paul Crompton's treatment of Master Cheng Man-Ch'ing's Tai Chi form is incredible, good illustrations and explanations, plus a realistic view of the art in self defense and philosophy. Crompton's work is to be commended. ... Read more

Product Description
In this erudite yet practical book Professor Cheng shares the secrets of his lineage and takes us to the heart of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, presenting it as a martial artm a medicine, and a means of exercise and self-development. With examples from anatomy and physics, he demonstrates precisely how the postures and moves work, internally as energetic principles, and externally on opponents. Professor Cheng always emphasizes that disease (like an attack from an opponent) is an opportunity for training. The practitioner of T'ai Chi Ch'uan may serve as his (or her) own doctor and, likewise, as the physician (or trainer) of an attacker. This special text includes:
-Thirteen essays on his insights into T'ai Chi Ch'uan.
-Oral secrets from his teacher, Yang Cheng'fu.
-Questions and answers giving his commentary to the classics.
-Descriptions and mechanics of push-hands, San Shou, and Ta Lu.
-Prefaces by both Madame Cheng and Bejamin Pang-Jeng Lo. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Great resource for advanced students.
After 10 years of Tai Chi Chuan practice advanced books like this are becoming a valuable resource.Until you understand chi flow, rooting, adhering, following, and the myriad of other terms that describe the fundamental elements of the art, much of the book may come across as esoteric.A respected elder in the art once told me that the 'classics' will not lead you astray.The trick is to find good translations without too much personal commentary.

This book has the wisdom from the classics with a bit of practical explanation.For those on the path this is a great resource.

A treasure from one of the great ones
This book is my constant companion. I've carried my original 1985 copy with me everywhere since it was first published. I should declare my bias: I was a student at Professor Cheng's school in New York starting in 1974, the year before he passed, and studied and eventually taught there until 1986. All of his senior students considered this the Bible of Professor Cheng's form long before it was ever published in English. We had classes in which Ed Young, one of the Professor's senior students, translated it for us chapter by chapter, his forehead breaking out in a fine sweat with the effort of attempting to adequately convey the Professor's meaning. ( I still have my notes from those sessions, and Ben Lo's translation compares very favorably with Ed's.) I often quote or read from the Thirteen Treatises to my students, and always recommend it as an indispensable work. In short, if there is one single most essential volume on Professor Cheng's Tai Chi Chuan, this is it--and I believe it can prove equally valuable to students of other styles and forms. I especially recommend it in combination with "Master Cheng's New Method of Taichi Chuan Self-Cultivation," translated by Mark Hennessy (Frog Ltd., 1999).

Great classic by great master
If you're a serious tai chi practitioner this book should be in your library. Besides the invaluable knowledge it contains, this is just a very nice edition of the work. It's the only edition authorized by the professor's estate, and contains an introduction written by his wife, in addition to the translation by master Ben Lo. The cover painting of a white lotus and samples of calligraphy by Prof. Chen are nice touches, and the book is hardback and printed on higher quality you would get in a paperback edition. And the price is reasonable given the features and overall quality of the edition.

But of course the most important aspect of the book is that it's one of the most detailed books on the practice and theory of tai chi ever written. Tai chi is composed of three main parts: the self-healing, martial, and medical (or the ability to heal others), aspects, and prof. Chen discusses all of these at length. For example, he discusses the physiology of tai chi, and how chi is transformed in the body to strengthen the muscles, connective tissue, and even bones, in greater detail than I had seen before in any other book. Numerous tai chi principles and practical points are also discussed and illuminated. There is enough material and food for thought here to reflect on for a long time, and I found I spent much time just trying to absorb the basic points, let alone the more advanced principles.

The photos of master Chen performing many of the postures and techniques and their analyses and descriptions are also very helpful. There are 37 different postures in the long form, and each one is illustrated, and the external body mechanics, internal chi process, and martial application discussed and described. It's difficult to get all of that from a single static photo, which is why I say this book is really only for the intermediate or advanced student. (I note that the although some of the reviews here have been posted for more than five years, they only have a few votes, which leads me to believe that only the most serious students obtain and read this book, and look up reviews for it on Amazon).

All is all, a true classic of the martial arts by a great master that should be read and studied by every serious student of tai chi.

Classic Text Covers a Lot of Ground-- a few insights
Cheng Man Ching was what Westerners would term something of a Renaissance man.This is what I've determined.In Chinese culture, it was the essence of enlightenment to pursue numerous virtuous pursuits felt to advance one's spirit or soul.Master Cheng fulfilled this ideal-- he strove to master calligraphy, Chinese medicine, philosophy, as well as Tai Chi, among others.

His 13 treatise(s) are the basis of this one man's perception of the world.Its foundation is, of course, qi/internal development, based on the principles of Tai Chi.But they cover a number of topics, including his perceptions on Chinese medicine, personal behavior, cosmology, Tai Chi development, and others.

There were approximately 3 or 4 pearls that I will take away from this book for my own internal martial arts practice, and that in alone is of inestimable value... Perhaps there is no more than that, but I keep looking for a book that delves into detail about things-- from mechanics and techniques to stages of development and evolution.Cheng touches on these things in his treatises, but does not explore.In the FAQ section at the end, many students' questions seem to be striving for these same details, but Cheng's answer is "There is no more", it is complete.

That's all well and good, and it may be true.It may be that our discovery of whatever else there is must be unique and unexplained.But I still sought something deeper when finished with the book.In addition, his assertions that there is "no more" left me skeptical because his chapters on using Eastern medicine to "cure" tuberculosis were clearly based on limited insight into what TB really is.I don't think Cheng really had TB from his description.He may have had pulmonary fibrosis from a condition resembling silicosis, but not TB.

That limitation is no fault of Master Cheng, but it does unfortunately color my opinion of his insights.Is there indeed something more, just no good way to explain it or expand on it given his cultural and temporal background?I don't know.

A good book, and as a classic an important one that must be read.As much as anything, the pictures of his form were valuable.I learned a lot just studying those-- moreso than his descriptive text.In particular, the relaxation of his arms was evident, and something I still have difficulty with.

But... I kept wanting to ask him questions, and alas I cannot.
No doubt he would cuff me on the forehead and say "There is no more.Practice!"And I shall.

Wonderful Edition
This is a beautiful edition of Cheng Man Ch�ing�s text on Chi Tai Ch�uan. There are other translations of this text available, but this is by far the best for several reasons. First, it is hardcover, and the layout is beautiful. The cover has a color print of one of Cheng�s paintings, and there is an example of his calligraphy on the inside. The book is also larger than other editions I have seen, and the prints and pictures are printed larger and more clearly as well. The larger pictures of Cheng performing the Tai Chi form are especially useful. And, while this may not matter everyone, this edition of Cheng�s book is also the only one authorized by his estate, and contains a preface by Cheng�s wife. I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Since ancient times Tai Chi Chuan has been practiced as a holistic mind/body fitness system, bringing immense benefits for practitioners in health, longevity, relaxation, and concentration. Tai Chi Chuan was also practiced as an effective and deadly martial art.

Because of this, the ancient masters rarely disclosed their secrets, guarding them as closely as they would military secrets. They preserved their profound insights in obscure songs, poems, and classics, revealing only to those they considered trustworthy and ready for such knowledge. That is, until this century.

Now, you can reap the benefits of centuries of wisdom and practical experience to deepen and refine your Tai Chi Chuan. Discover ways to reach the essence of your Form and take your Push Hands to higher levels. Dr. Yang has translated these classics from the original Chinese, and has written commentaries to make them more accessible to contemporary minds. Tai Chi Secrets of the Wu Style is an invaluable resource for students who seek true understanding of their art.

* Useful for any style of Tai Chi Chuan.
* Sound, practical advice for any martial art.

* Key points for incorporating the teachings into your practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Another nice translation from Dr. Yang.
Probably NOT all that useful to the beginner, but certainly to the intermediate and advanced student -- even to those practicing styles other than Wu.For those of you who haven't looked at these translations from Yang J-M, they are worth the trouble for all the little corners of insight your practice alone -- and your own traditional texts alone -- won't provide.

Authentic Explanation for the Theories
This is a must have for everyone who is willing to diligently study, and practice Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan. The book provides the transalation of the classics as well as the Masters interpretation and elaboration. I believe that without a thorough understanding of the theories underneath, one's skill can never prosper. Very useful book!

Translates basic classic forms from the original Chinese
Tai chi has, since ancient times, brought benefits in health and longevity to its practitioners. Tai Chi Secrets Of The Wu Style translates basic classic forms from the original Chinese and modifies them to make them more accessible to modern readers, blending insights for all tai chi styles with commentaries and key points for using the classic Chinese teachings in modern styles.

Rendered into English with a careful & detailed explanation
Tai Chi Secrets Of The Wu Style is a selection of carefully translated wisdom concerning secrets of the ancient Tai Chi martial art of self defense, personal fitness, and balance. Passages are shown in their original Chinese characters, then rendered into English with a careful and detailed explanation of the nuances of their meaning. Highly recommended for Tai Chi devotees who seek a greater understanding of this martial art, Tai Chi Secrets Of The Wu Style is a welcome and invaluable addition to any personal martial arts reading list or reference collection. ... Read more

Product Description
Millions of people worldwide practice t’ai chi, the most popular form of which was codified beginning in the 1960s by Cheng Man Ch’ing. In this scholarly yet practical book, Professor Cheng shows precisely how the postures and moves of t’ai chi work, with examples from anatomy and physics, both internally as energetic principles and externally on opponents. He clarifies the spheres, triangles, and centripetal and centrifugal forces within physical exchanges such as push-hands. Contrasting Western and Chinese techniques of healing, he also explores the relationships of organs to one another in pathology and the necessary dynamics of treatment. Professor Cheng explains how the practitioner may serve as his or her own doctor and, likewise, as the physician or trainer of an attacker. The martial arts, he says, are not a special case of unusual power, simply an aspect of adapting natural and cosmic law to circumstance. This edition of the classic text contains 13 major essays; oral secrets from Cheng’s teacher Yang Cheng’fu; a Q&A with commentary on martial arts classics; the author’s application and functions of each of the 37 postures of the short form, with the original photographs of him as a young man; two prefaces; and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An infinite well of Tai Ji wisdom from one of the modern day sages.
Indispensable for any practitioner of the Simplifed Yang Style form...yet, the writing is complex, criptic and even mystical at time. Not at all easily understood upon a shallow examination. So, as its been said "heed it well".)
Definitely for an advanced practiotioner. Although, it could be interesting to a beginner, from the standpoint of "getting there". ... Read more

Product Description
An exploration of Tai Chi as it relates to riding and to developing a mind-body connection both on and off the horse. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Ride from Within
My dressage coach is a Tai Chi advocate.This book combines both disciplines and provides an in-depth understanding how the human body works to influence the horses body. When both bodies are at one with each other...that is when the magic happens...
I am diligently doing the ground exercises and and am starting to communicate this to the horse, with the help of my coach...looking forward to the new riding season with a deeper sense of connection with my horse.

Guaranteed to improve your Riding
I bought this book about two weeks ago.I read through the whole book in two days, and am now working on the exercises.I can already feel a huge improvement in my riding.My awareness of balance and where I am carrying tension is greatly heightened, and with the exercises I am able to correct these problems.

The unmounted exercises are deceptively simple.As my proficiency increases the benefit I get from them increases exponentially.

I would recommend this book to anyone who is serious about riding, or anyone who would just like to increase the pleasure of riding.

Marvellously therapeutic!

Improve your seat.
Great book to help with your seat and "feel" for riding.
Highly recommended for students and instructors of any discipline. ... Read more

Product Description
The T'ai Chi Ruler stands as a unique system utilizing a unique tool- the wooden T'ai Chi ruler. It is an ancient system of Ch'i-Kung and martial exercise that develops internal energy through a series of seven powerful meditations. Unlike many disciplines with a narrow focus the T'ai Chi ruler will improve and enhance the practice of any other T'ai Chi form or any form of martial art. these uses of the unique device will appeal to martial arts and T'ai Chi enthusiasts; Ch'i-Kung Yoga and meditation practitioners; students of Asian philosophy; and chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great little book on little known facet of tai chi
The original Tai Chi art (not the modern, watered down versions) can be so frustratingly difficult that it's nice when you can learn an aspect of it that really isn't that hard such as the Tai Chi ruler.

This book is on such a topic, it's a fine book on a little known aspect of tai chi. Dunn covers all the exercises, of which there are only about 10 so it's not that much to learn (at least compared to the 300 move old Yang style tai chi form that I do) and I liked that part of it. These are moving exercises rather than static chi gung, which will probably appeal to more people than the stationary type of chi gung, but the static types of chi gung are still important, too.

However, for me the best part of the book was the last chapter in which Dunn does a really great job of discussing the history of some Taoist and Buddhist philosophy, and the meaning of some of the more abstruse concepts, such as the ultimate perception one's being and reality, which is one of the goals. This is probably the best short description I've read and wanted to mention that, and it's worth buying the book just for that.

I wanted to mention that I also have Dunn's video on the 108 move form, which I liked. He does a very nice, smooth performance, but he doesn't keep the upper qua (the armpit) open, which one should do. But overall, a nice presentation of the middle length form (the 300 move form being the long version). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Foundation of Intelligent Practice
No other writer better prepares you to step into traditional practice of Tai Chi. Master Jwing-Ming gives us an insightful and detailed look that allows us to see clearly and critically from that point on. He provides us with the tools to criticize our individual practice until we have found a suitable instructor to guide us further. Beyond that, he well prepares you to continue your study into the more advanced teachings, which his own line of books clearly depict. In addition, because he draws so much from classical medicine in his basic-but- thorough style of teaching, he allows you to easily apply your studies to other styles (such as Long Fist, Hsing-i, or Crane)and to other disciplines (such as acupressure, stress relief, pain relief, or even combative dim-mak).

Elementary, helpful, clear
I get more out of this book as I learn from my instructor.Unspectacular photos.Nice two person open hand sequence.Useful for beginners who want to supplement their study.

I want my money back!
This is another unsuccessful entry in the author's ambitious, all-encompassing series on Chinese martial arts.This book does not provide sufficient detail to enable one to learn on his own, and for someone who already has a competentinstructor, it offers little more beyond the obvious and the superficial.In other words, this book has no intended audience.This work, as well as many others by the author, appears to be little more than a translation of a hodge-podge of Chinese martial arts books written by "real" masters of the craft.The only redeeming quality of this work is that it is actually written in intelligible English, in contrast to some of the other translated Chinese books on the subject.Definitely not worth its exorbitant price.

Excellent book on Yang style long form Tai Chi
The book shows detailed steps in the Yang style of Tai Chi (long form), as well as some martial aspects of each move. It also has a section on chi kung, and a Tai Chi straight sword sequence. The only minus that I have about the book is that althought the photos show you the position that you will end up in, they aren't positioned in the appropriate direction. The text instructions, however, easily make up for that. I would recommend this book to anyone who want to understand the martial aspects if the Yang long form. Ron Przygodzki ... Read more

Product Description
The ancient martial art of Tai Chi is an increasingly popular aid to ease the stress of modern life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A few comments
This is a well written and beautifully illustrated book on tai chi. The paper is the nice, glossy type so the photos and illustrations really stand out. But there is a lot of good information here too. There are the usual discussions of tai chi's health and spiritual aspects, but for me the best part of the book was the presentation of the Hou style short form, which I hadn't seen before, and the comparisons at the end of the volume where the author contrasts the different styles, such as Wu, Yang, Sun, Chen, Hou, and so on. Although brief, this gave me a better understanding of the origins, similarities and differences of the major styles. Much of the first part of the book is taken up with discussions of physiology, which, as a physiologist myself, I could have done without, but for the general reader there's some useful information here. One interesting feature is there are about a dozen interviews with different people who have been practicing tai chi for months to many years about how tai chi has helped or influenced them. Overall, a good book for a beginning to intermediate student.

Visual and Verbal Clarity
As the editor who commissioned this book and originally worked with the author on it, I am delighted that readers are so glowing about it. It is certainly deserved. Angus has written a truly accessible book and the commissioned photographs, using time-lapse photography as well as sequential shots, give the reader ample opportunity to really understand what they are doing.

This book works for me
This is my favorite tai chi book. It has helped me re-learn tai chi and then go beyond. As an exercise that seems so non-strenuous, tai chi has significantly improved my muscle tone and control.

I agree with another reviewer in that I don't think tai chi can be learned entirely through a book, but I had taken tai chi lessons for over a year. I stopped practicing and quickly forgot most of what I had learned. The book has helped to bring it back to me.

My first reason for chosing this book is that it matched the form I learned in class - the Chen Man Ching version of the Yang Short Form. There is a recommended variation part way through the book, but it also provides the original postures.

Even better, the book's instructions include a visualization/ meditation to go with many of the postures. For example, with the first movements of the single whip, you are asked to imagine your hands casting a small fishing net and "surrounding yourself with a spray of silver light."

I have found the warm-up exercises in this book to be helpful too. Some are deceptively simple yet powerful. Finally, the end provides some suggestions on how to incorporate tai chi practice into daily home and work life. You don't have to go through the whole form. If you have only a few minutes or a small space, you can practice one or two movements and concentrate on those.

This book is worth seeking out.

Beautifully illustrated, broad in scope, encouraging intro
If you wish to learn Tai Chi, any book alone is probably insufficient.That said, an introductory reference and overview is equally likelyessential. Angus Clark has drawn from his broad experience and deepunderstanding of the history, forms, and practical benefits of this art incrafting this lovely book.

The book begins with a very helpful historicalperspective of Tai Chi and articulates well its relationship to otherChinese martial arts. The presentation of the Short Form (a variation ofthe Cheng Man-Ch'ing short form) is quite well done with additionalmaterial on useful variations.

Throughout the book the breadth of TaiChi's value is constantly reinforced. From relaxation and exercise, throughgeneral health and fitness, to defense and martial forms, Clark nicelyopens the door to the cosmos of Tai Chi.

Of particular value are acollection of short notes from Westerners who have taken up this art for avariety of reason and for varying lengths of time. I found theseparticularly encouraging.

As a newcomer to Tai Chi, I will besupplementing this book with videos and probably local courses. Clark'swork is superbly supported with that of the numerous talented illustrators.The result is a lovely book to enjoy, share, and reread often.

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tai Chi
I searched long and hard for a good book on Tai Chi. This is it.This book has it all.If you are interested in the Cheng Man-Ch'ing style of Tai Chi, I recommend you start with this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great overview
I think this is a great book for anyone.It's a big book, but full of information.As a tai chi chi kunginstructor, I found it interesting and helpful to me for topics for my class.I leave it on my coffee table as everyone seems to pick it up and look at it.

What A Book!
The author of this book crammed a ton of inforamation in this encyclopedia of self healing. It is in no ways a complete manual on one or two types of methods, although the self massage and massage instructions with step by step photos, come very close. Mark Evans presents, in a safe manner, information on Reflexology (for the feet), Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Herbalism (how to use and concot your own oitments, oils and more); Yoga (not too much, just a small session on stretching); Tai Chi (three different patterns); Hydrotherapy (more of a discussion - history; method, etc.); Massage (how to massage yourself, another person, an elder person, your baby and a section on the loving touch (for you and your spouse). There is even a small discussion on the energy touch. The first chapeters are broken down according to the body and its systems, circulatory, digestive, immune, reproductive and so on. It is a big book... In the sections, there are a number of complications the author gives, scientific information about each illness and how to overcome them with Hydrotherapy, Naturopathy, Yoga, etc.

This is a indepth, informative and a very well thought out and put together book. At first I thought I would be getting a book completely different than this, but took a chance and I am glad that I did. Although I have my own Yogic practice, there is so much that can be learned from this extroidanary book. Enjoy! ... Read more

Product Description

Great for stress relief, t'ai chi improves the flow of the practitioner's chi -- "vital energy" or "life force" -- which is essential for physical and mental well-being. This beginner's guide offers advice on the vital components of T'ai Chi -- breathing, focus, visualization, and the flow of chi. Featuring step-by-step instructional photos and a unique hands-free design, this colorful guide is a complete introduction to T'ai Chi, with core movements that can be done at home. Each exercise is accompanied by information on its purpose, the correct technique, and how to customize the movement if you suffer from weak or swollen joints.

Customer Reviews (1)

Great for learning the 24 Postures Standard Form.

The pictures are very clear and the large sizemakes the steps very visible and memorable.
If you are starting out in learning the 24 postures form, this book will be very helpful to you. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A book about the true spirit and nature of T'ai Chi.
Sifu Huang's book affords the reader insight into the real meaning of T'ai Chi... the playful, energetic spirit which is fundamental to Taoist philosophy.I recently had the pleasure of taking a T'ai Chi workshop with Sifu Huang at Esalen, many years after I first read this seminal work on the subject.I'm happy to say that the workshop was every bit as much a pleasure as I had expected from reading about it.I recommend this book for anyone interested in T'ai Chi or the Tao, from beginner to expert ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great Book
The book arrived on time and like new. It was everything I expected and more. Covers Tai Chi Theory very well.

Great Coverage of Jing
In his book, Dr. Yang Jwing Ming attempts to describe the concept of jing in a solid, physical, comprehensive manner. He also covers basic Qi Gong concepts, the symbolism of the ba-gua trigrams, and how they correlate to the concepts of Taiji Quan. All in all, this is a very solid source of information, with plenty of citations for further cross-referencing.

The topic of jing is covered from every angle, along with advice on how to train it, emit it, and how it applies to the 13 postures. The only down side is that the diagrams are very often a page or 2 after the text explanation, but this was most likely done to save space rather than leave blank pages for photographs.

The Taiji (yin yang) symbolism is also discussed in depth, along with it's application to the Taiji Quan movement and tactics. The ba-gua trigrams' correlation to technique and movement are also discussed, and a reasonable explanation provided.

What further cements my positive opinion of this book, is the inclusion and translation of the Taiji Classics, which are the founding back bone of Taiji Quan practice. Without proper understanding of the Taiji Classics, the average practitioner can only hope for a superficial knowlege of the form, and blind coreography.

If you are serious about your Taiji Quan training, and wish to improve it beyound simple dancing of the form, this book will help you progress in many areas that are crucial to Taiji Quan as a martial art. ... Read more