One of the questions I am often asked is “Can I learn Tai Chi at home.” My answer would be yes and no. Why I say this is because it is possible to learn a choreographed Tai Chi form from a book, video, or online class. I have done it myself in the past. However, that self-learned Tai Chi form most likely would be missing so many important elements found only by learning Tai Chi in person from a qualified Tai Chi teacher.
Proper body mechanics are essential and unfortunately, you most likely will be missing these vital points if you learn only by watching Tai Chi instructional videos or reading a Tai Chi book. I feel that I did not understand the essence of my Tai Chi form until I started learning Push Hands. Push Hands is a two-person practice. Even if you think you are practicing Tai Chi correctly, a Tai Chi teacher must correct your form and postures in person. One important element from a Tai Chi class is that the teacher will ask each student to hold a posture. He or She will walk around the class and make sure each student is executing the posture correctly. This type of hands-on instruction is essential and not found in videos or books.
Unfortunately, most people want to learn a Tai Chi form even though it could be missing many of the necessary elements.
If you do not have the finances to learn from a qualified Tai Chi teacher in person or do not have a teacher near where you live. My suggestion would be to learn Qigong/Chi Kung from a book or by watching free YouTube videos online. You can get a great health benefit by following along and making these simple exercises part of your daily routine.
If you are still adamant about learning Tai Chi online, feel free to contact me for an online Tai Chi school recommendation.