Tai Chi Sword Form

Tai Chi Sword Form is another form of moving meditation, though the execution is more energised and spirited than the Tai Chi Forms. We also train in drill-like brackets to improve sword handling skills.

There is also an application bracket we teach so you may know how to respond to a sword attack.

Though unlikely to be attacked in the 21st century, it is not so unlikely to be attacked by a long item like pipe or piece of timber, so it is useful defence knowledge against what would otherwise be an alarming confrontation.

Practice swords are supplied for the first three months only. They must be left at the training centre.

Clothing – if you wish to comfortably manage the activities, wear flexible long shorts or pants and a loose t-shirt.  We wear black pants and white tops.

After three months, you are expected to wear the uniform.

For formal occasions, you would be given plenty of notice and expected to have the formal uniform jacket.

Shoes – are not to be worn on the gym mat so you can have bare feet or socks/ stockings.  It is recommended if you wear shoes on the tai chi lawn that they do not have a strong grip, for it prevents you from sliding, turning and spinning easily.  Master always wears Kung Fu shoes, for they are cheap and flexible.  Your Senior Instructor mainly has bare feet, enjoying the grounded feeling.

Water – we are on filtered rainwater at Forgedale.  Bring a drinking vessel so you can rehydrate.

Loose-leaf folder or similar – if you wish to expedite your training, it is important to get into the habit of writing down what you learn and questions you would like to ask.  Then over time, you will have created your own customised learning manual.

We suggest a different for each loose-leaf page so that as your learning deepens you can add to the page and add extra pages.  A book can be frustrating and restrictive.  Master is a stickler for writing things down and dating each entry.  You will then know the context and gain an appreciation for your improved learning over time, too.

Though we may use videos as learning aids, reliance on videos is not considered an appropriate way for students to learn.  We encourage memory enhancement and patience, letting the learning flow naturally.

Published books are available from Master who can be contacted via his Facebook page.  In each class, we read one or two pieces of prose from Master’s books.  Master shares a lot of his literature on his Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Teh-Nei-Chia-Chuan-Tai-Chi-Kung-Fu-147054698663845/

Insect protection – as we are in a bushland setting and may train outdoors or in the open gazebo.

Weapons – are provided for lessons initially.  After three months, you are expected to have your own.  Beginners start with the bamboo staff and a plastic tai chi training sword.