When you begin to learn Tai Chi you are normally taught square Tai Chi.
Square Tai Chi is a stop start method where you learn the points of reference of a particular movement.
For example lets look at the square method teaching of the opening posture.
- raise your arms up and away from your body
- stop
- sink your elbows
- stop
- lower your arms to the sides of your body
- stop
Each stop is your point of reference. Stopping also allows you to check your posture.
Square Tai Chi is an easier method for beginners to learn Tai Chi. And it’s usually taught throughout the form.
Once a beginner has mastered square Tai Chi the next step is to learn round Tai Chi.
And here’s how round Tai Chi works.
Instead of starting and stopping you round the form out. It now becomes one continous rounded form.
It is a mistake to jump straight into round Tai Chi before you learn square Tai Chi because it’s difficult and errors usually occur which will take more time to correct.
So when learning Tai Chi be a square. If you are you will become more rounded.
Hi Chris,
I find your practical tips and reflections on Tai Chi helpful and interesting, and i enjoy reading them.
I learn Yang and Wu Taichi Tai Chi and have a great passion for Tai Chi too.
Poh
Thanks Poh. I’m glad you’re finding my Chris Chi blog helpful.
Thanks Pete.
Hi Chris
Interesting, never thought of tai chi in that way (square and round). Great summary, “So when learning Tai Chi be a square. If you are you will become more rounded.”
Great blog.
Pete