Tai Chi Kung DVD by Lawrence Galante (Preowned)

Many people today practice Tai Chi Chuan without understanding how this gentle-looking form is used for self-defense. Tai Chi is a martial art and as such is meant to be executed with great speed and inner strength known as "chi." Unless there is an understanding of how these movements are to be used and practiced, the student will never be able to generate the power necessary to use Tai Chi as a martial art.

Chi Kung is also an essential component of Tai Chi Chuan. I have compiled the Chi Kung exercises shown on this video to help the Tai Chi student understand the moves, blocks, and strikes in the Yang-style Tai Chi form. They are also designed to stretch and strengthen the body. Regular daily practice of these exercises will improve your Tai Chi form.

Chi Kung has been practiced in China for thousands of years. Chi Kung means "breath mastery." In China today, Chi Kung is used as a therapeutic exercise and is also taught to promote the health and vitality of the general population. It strengthens the legs and upper body, improves cardiovascular circulation, oxygenates the blood and organs, and promotes relaxation and well-being.

Practicing a strong form will eventually produce a strong practitioner. Likewise, practicing a weak form can never produce a strong practitioner.

Dr. Galante has studied Chi Kung and other Chinese martial arts since 1964 and has traveled throughout Asia, Europe, and North America teaching Tai Chi and Chi Kung. His book "Tai Chi-—the Supreme Ultimate, " first published in 1981, is a classic text on the Yang-style short form.

Publication date: 1998