Martial Applications (Basic)
Tai Chi at its root is a martial art, unfortunately today most teachers ignore this fact and teach the art strictly for health purposes. This approach is a great disability to the student and the Tai Chi community in general as the student must have a complete understanding of the forms in order to be able to become intimate with the energies available.
The basic applications course will introduce the student to some core principles and martial techniques associated with the Yang 16 forms.
The student will be introduced to:
The four catagories of fighting arts
Short, mid and long range fighting
Opening and closing the opponent along with the associated penalties and rewards
Occupying and taking advantage of the central or empty doors
Join, neutralize, control and advance
Long power vs short power
Basic defensive neutralizing (Hua)
The Taiji fist and various hand striking techniques
Snap kick
Basic intercepting and trapping
Sense of distance + achieving and maintaining proper angles
Chin na applications (basic)
Shuai Jiao applications (basic)
Four of the eight essential energies will be introduced, thoroughly discussed and practiced
Gaining an understanding of the intent of each form and then practicing the martial technique(s) will raise the students energy and awareness and thus enhance their practice.
