What Is 'tai Chi'?, Paperback

This book grew out of a question one of the author's students asked. The answer proved to be longer than either teacher or student could have anticipated.

As he looks at the complex art of 'Tai Chi', the author answers questions such as why, unlike in other martial arts, 'Tai Chi' has no gradings; how hard you should try; and how to make the most of your teacher. A wide range of material is covered, including fundamental points about the mechanics of movement and the 'energetic' aspects of practice, as well as the relationship between body, mind and spirit that emerges. The author also provides answers to questions that even experienced practitioners may not have thought to ask, such as what are the levels of self-defense in 'Tai Chi'? How do I refine and develop my 'Tai Chi'? What is the difference between method and technique? How do I put principles into practice?

This insightful book covers all aspects of 'Tai Chi', answering questions that are beyond the scope of many classes. It will be of interest to anyone beginning 'Tai Chi' or Qi Gong, as well as to more experienced practitioners at all levels, practitioners of other martial arts, and friends and relatives of "Tai Chi" players who wonder what all the fuss and enthusiasm is about.

Peter Gilligan had over thirty years' experience of Tai Chi, Qi gong and the Nei Jia (internal arts).He also had extensive experience as an Outdoor Pursuits Instructor and as an Associate Research Assistant at the Ergonomics unit of University College London. This, coupled with three months study of the therapeutic applications of Qigong and Taijiquan within the Chinese National Health Service, made him uniquely qualified to relate the art of Taijiquan to both Western scientific method and physical culture and education. Peter was a registered instructor with the British Council for Chinese Martial Arts, and he was founder and director of the DAH School of Chinese Internal Arts, the only full-time school of its kind in Belfast.