Can Tai Chi Chuan really be used for fighting?
Of course, or else it would not be Tai Chi Chuan. Remember Chuan actually means fist (hence Boxing) or martial art. But if you practice only the stylised form, no matter how graceful your form may be or how long you may have practiced it, it is only an exercise, and will not be effective for self-defence. Its health benefits, although very good, are reduced, because for maximum benefit all aspects of the art must be practiced. Martial practice will increase coordination, balance , perception, strength, stamina, resilience and precision in movement. It gives meaning to the movements in the form and hence enables it to be performed to a higher standard. It is necessary to find a competent instructor who can teach the self-defence aspects as they are not easy to master and require a special type of body conditioning (Nei Kung) to perform effectively. However, in practical terms, the first level of attaining good health is applicable to the great majority of Tai Chi Chuan practitioners tod
