An Introduction to Tai Chi

  • Harvard Health Online Course
Person does Tai chi outside.

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Learn how to attain the amazingly wide host of health benefits for both body and mind through the ancient practice of Tai Chi. This easy-to-follow course features 20 Tai Chi video demonstrations.

  • Online; Self-Paced

$29.95

Certificate

Two Weeks, 2-6 Hours/Week

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Overview

An Introduction to Tai Chi is the perfect way to learn the ancient Chinese practice right from your home—and to enjoy dozens of proven health benefits as you progress. Our videos show you the proper form, movements, and pacing for 20 tai chi exercises, as demonstrated by renowned tai chi master Stanwood Chang and narrated by instructor Peter Wayne, PhD. 

Recent studies show tai chi can help to strengthen your heart, build better balance, improve flexibility, slow the onset of dementia, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and help relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, among many other benefits. 

Everyone can benefit from the practice of tai chi, no matter the age or fitness level. Once you enroll, you can watch the course as often as you want, whenever you want. Among our informative lessons: “Basic Tai Chi Breathing,” “10 Tips for Starting Tai Chi,” and “The 8 Active Ingredients of Tai Chi.”

Learning Objectives

  • Discover the benefits of Tai Chi
  • Learn standing Tai Chi Calisthenics
  • Learn traditional Tai Chi Elements
  • Learn seated Tai Chi Calisthenics

Syllabus

About Our Course
Tai Chi Simplified
Quiz

How Tai Chi Helps
Tai Chi and Your Health
Quiz

Introduction to Standing Tai Chi
How to Practice Standing Tai Chi
Quiz

Introduction to Traditional Tai Chi Elements
How to Practice Traditional Tai Chi Elements
Quiz

Introduction to Seated Tai Chi Calisthenics
How to Practice Seated Tai Chi
Quiz

Introduction: Getting Into a Routine
Your Personal Tai Chi Workout
Quiz

Cooldown
Quiz
Points to Remember

Program Topics