The Complete Book of T'Ai Chi

by Stewart McFarlane and Tan Hong

Book Overview

T'ai chi ch'uan is usually seen as a ritualized series of movements--an exercise system, rather than a martial art. But it began as a fighting system, and this book shows both aspects: a long, clearly... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0789442590
• ISBN13: 9780789442598
• Release Date: June 1999
• Publisher: DK Publishing (Dorling Kindersley)
• Length: 120 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 7.2" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

A good book to use as a basic guide to learning Tai Chi.

I find it interesting to read other book reviews when it comes to the martial arts. It is an easy thing to find fault with almost any martial arts book, but it seems to occur more often in books about the Chinese arts like Tai Chi. The fact that the author does not have perfect form compared to a master with forty years experience should not deter readers of this text. The book is designed for beginners and like any physical skills text, one should use the volume in combination with real hands-on training with a Tai Chi instructor. This book has beautiful clear photographs to help explain each particular move. This text covers many of the basic Tai Chi movements such as ward off, single whip, brush knee and twist, toe kick, fair lady works shuttles and other tai chi moves. In conclusion, this is a good introduction to tai chi. Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art Myths, Season of the Warrior, Never Trust a Politician, Walking With Warriors, Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Wakizashi-Jutsu Manual, Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

the complete book of tai chi

the book is a helpful link towards my understanding of tai chi. the movements are well defined and easy for the novice to comprehend. the book was recommended by my tai chi teacher as a support system to her class techniques. the book is used but in very good condition.

Good book, lack few important points

This book is great. The only thing that the author miss is the flowing of all the movements at a slow, even and inpausible pace. The author concentrates on 'song', relaxation awareness, this is vital but he miss pointing out that tai chi is actually an art of constant change and not taught by the numbers. Furthermore Grand Master Cheng Man Ching's 37 step form takes about 9 and 12 minutes preferbably. All these reference is taken from Nigel Sutton's, Tai Chi Chuan: Roots and Branches.

Complete Book of Tai Chi

By far the best book I have found that explains Tai Chi in terms a beginner can understand. Stewart describes each move by breaking down body movements. I am an instructor of the Yang style and recommend it to all of my students, use it daily myself. Thank You StewartMolly CarringtonLowcountry tai chi .comBluffton SC

Learning is almost as good as being with a teacher.

This exceptional photographic book is one of a kind. It stands as close as you can get without being with a true teacher. Indepth detail showing all necessary steps and jestures that are required. The only thing missing is an actual teacher to ask questions.