Can I learn Tai Chi for Free?
Every day, I practice what I refer to as free Tai Chi using YouTube. With almost thirty years of Tai Chi training, I scour YouTube for videos related to Tai Chi, Push-Hands, Qigong, and meditation. Since I do not pay for YouTube, I consider learning from these videos free. I gain new insights or review what I already know by watching these videos. It's a fantastic way to improve your understanding of Tai Chi without cost.
While you can learn various Tai Chi forms, such as Wu, Sun, Yang, Chen, or Hao styles, solely from free YouTube videos, I do not recommend it.
For example, a few years ago, when I began learning a Chen Tai Chi form, it was interrupted by the onset of the Covid pandemic and had to be canceled. My only option was to learn from a YouTube video. While I did imitate the form, when I resumed in-person class, it became clear that my form was only a superficial imitation of what I had seen on the video. My Chen Tai Chi form required a lot of correction. It became clear that in-person instruction is always the best way to learn Tai Chi. It can be beneficial to supplement your in-person training with online resources.
If you cannot find an in-person Tai Chi teacher, then paid online instruction may be your only option.
Another way to experience free Tai Chi, you might consider participating in a World Tai Chi and Qigong Day event. This annual event takes place on the last Saturday in April. At approximately 10 am, several Tai Chi teachers and their students give exhibitions and free Tai Chi classes to introduce anyone interested in Tai Chi and Qigong. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced Tai Chi player, this event is always enjoyable and free of charge.
Additionally, I have found that many Tai Chi schools offer free introductory classes to newcomers. This way, you can experience the Tai Chi form and class environment to determine if it is right for you.
It is possible to find Tai Chi teachers willing to teach for free. While it may be challenging, it is not impossible. I have taught Tai Chi for free and given my time to others without charging a fee.