Tai Chi is a martial art that uses graceful, dancelike moves. It has many different styles but the most commonly known ones are the Chen, Yang, Wu or Wu/Hao, and Sun styles. Today there are thousands of different styles, mixtures and spinoffs of the main style. Even those who have no interest in the martial arts aspect of Tai Chi often take up the art form for its numerous health benefits. Tai Chi is often thought of as moving meditation, as it focuses on coordination in relaxation, rather than muscular tension, in order to neutralize or initiate physical attacks.

Most Tai Chi practice is slow and repetitive in order to learn how to use the leverage of the movements in a physical situation. The slow repetitive movement helps one to learn how to breathe properly and the correct stance to use while practicing the various forms. Tai Chi is a wonderful way to open up and relax with its smooth, flowing movements. It works very well as a form of mobile meditation as well. It helps stretch the muscles and increases blood flow to the whole body.

As a martial art form, it focuses on first learning the movements by repeating the same movements time and time again. Over time the speed at which you practice these moves increases and soon you will find yourself switching quickly between the graceful moves. Watching two Tai Chi students practice is almost like watching a dance, each one countering and shifting into a different stance to prepare for the next move. In all, Tai Chi has three major functions; Martial art, Meditation, and Health. With those three reasons, it is no wonder that Tai Chi is as popular as it is today. With the strain of the modern world it is nice to find a martial art form that both relieves stress and teaches self defense.