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Tai Chi Chuan — Weapons

Our association offers the study of four different weapons, each giving a deeper understanding of the hand forms.

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Tai Chi & wellbeing

A practice supported by research

Tai Chi is one of the complementary practices most widely studied around the world. Research suggests that regular practice improves balance, coordination and confidence in movement, which can help reduce the risk of falls.

Studies also suggest possible benefits for mental wellbeing, mobility and quality of life. Slow, rhythmic movements combine concentration, breathing, gentle physical activity and the enjoyment of practising with others.

Tai Chi can be an adaptable activity for people living with osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease or other long-term health conditions. It is practised at each person’s pace, alongside — and not instead of — advice from healthcare professionals. Benefits develop through regular practice.

Weapons practice

Why offer traditional weapons practice?

Weapons practice is optional. The long staff, fan, sabre and sword complement unarmed work: they develop internal strength and core stability while strengthening the connection between body and mind. These forms also help develop balance; eye, hand and foot coordination; concentration and memory.

For each weapon

A complete teaching approach

General theory of the weapon · weapon-specific Qi Gong · study of fundamental movements and their martial applications · learning a structured form · free exploration.

Fan practice in Tai Chi Chuan

Fan

  • A weapon that develops work from the centre
  • Learning to extend energy through the different levels of the spine, right to the fingertips
  • Artistic expression through free choreography
Long staff practice

Long staff

  • Traditionally the first weapon learned in Tai Chi Chuan
  • Essential preparation for training with the other weapons
  • In-depth work on rooted movement
  • Coordination between both hands and connection through the back
Sabre practice

Sabre

  • A short, slightly curved, single-edged weapon
  • A heavy metal weapon that develops precise timing in transitions
  • Circular movements generated by the whole body
  • Changes of weight through rotation of the pelvis, liveliness and fluidity
Sword practice

Sword

  • A weapon studied last
  • Allows movements to be refined with great precision
  • Learning to project energy into the weapon
In practice

In action

The fan: a weapon of expression and centringThe fan: a weapon of expression and centring
Fan practice outdoorsFan practice outdoors
Tai Chi Chuan movement with a fanTai Chi Chuan movement with a fan
Group practising Qi Gong outdoorsGroup practising Qi Gong outdoors
Gallery

Tai Chi & weapons gallery