Element Tai Chi For Beginners (English audio)

I was interested in trying taichi so I bought this as a try out to see if taichi was for me without going to a class. I have to say the instructor is excellent in showing the moves etc, unfortunately it has shown me that taichi is not for me, but I would highly recommend it to beginners.

I have a couple of tai chi DVD's and always looking for something easy to follow and a teacher who has a relaxing voice. This one is certainly worth a try.

Live this dvd. Still working, pratcicing on the QI gong section but have watched it through and am now trying the first moves of the tai chi section which will take me ages to get into my head and body. He explains things well, slowly and clearly. I love it when he says "beautiful job", even though he can't see the hash I make of it. I like this a lot.

I haven't used it yet as I've got trapped nerves in my bk but I will review it when I'm better

I really couldn't disagree more with the other reviewer! Tai Chi is not quick to learn: you have to learn the forms first before you can do the 'workout' (play the form) and the second section of this DVD is a really good guide to that - I haven't even attempted the third section yet! But, after the 'warm up' (sorry, hate talking about this like it's an aerobics DVD!) the relatively non-annoying american guy takes you through all the forms, doing each one twice, full description, very clear. First time through I tried to do the whole lot, and that was really very silly of me. At the moment, I'm working through slowly, making copious use of the pause and rewind buttons, learning one form at a time, and about three forms each 30 minute session. I can now do the first half of section two all the way through with him, and feeling very confident and relaxed and really quite excited at how easily it seems to be coming. Very much looking forward to getting to a point where I can move on to section 3, which is the full 'Tai Chi experience!'. So - it's a great DVD if you pace yourself and use section 2 as a step by step learning tool rather than trying to do everything at once. I bought it because I accidentally went to the US site first, where it has lots of great reviews.

It was comprehensive

I ask for 2 main things from an exercise DVD: clear and non-irritating instruction and a mirror image presentation. This one satisfies both these. Samuel Barnes includes Qi Gong on this disc as a warm up or to be done on its own and shows the postures twice so that they are easy to follow. He demonstrates each movement of Tai Chi twice in one section and then puts the sequence together in the final chapter. I find his manner pleasant and encouraging. This a very good disc for beginners like me - and I imagine you could use the last part even when you are more advanced. You can see his hands, feet and the rest throughout and he issues gentle reminders about placing the weight and exact position of limbs. His instructions on Tai Chi postures are the most detailed I have encountered. There is a separate introduction so that the exercise parts are discrete. I feel soothed after practising although I have not arrived at the full flow - yet!

Easy to follow. Soothing and works for mind and body.

Denna video passade inte mig. Läraren visar inte så bra.

Tai chi in this dvd is very enjoyable and comprehensive to follow.

I have been looking for something like this for years. I took Tai Chi classes many years ago and loved it, but then I stopped going to classes and have wanted to be able to continue at home. This CD allows me to do that. It would be very good for beginners, but even though I basically know the moves, I still need to watch and follow. The music is very relaxing too. I recommend this CD for anyone interested in Tai Chi at home.

just received the DVD and i am watching it- i like the instructors calm non hurried yet comprehensive and informative manner and his enthusiasm for the exercises he teaches both physical and spiritual- this is how i got hooked on yoga years ago= and i can see why his studio has been a success. i needed a beginners because i know NOTHING aboubt Tai chi or Qi Gong and have heard good things so i thought i'd try this DVD to include it into my workout schedule. i believe watching this DVD it is the program i am looking for. its got Qi Gong to prepare yourself then breakdown of Tai Chi moves- then he teaches you how to do the flow so it has slow steps for people like myself to build my practice without being overwhelmed. the first time i tried it with a VHS years ago i dont even remember who it was by- was certainly not like this Element DVD! they simply threw too much at me all at once. the background is lovely view of the ocean which i also love. Highly recommend! adding to my review March 11 2009- i've been using this DVD for the past week Three days i injured myself after i first received this DVD and my plans to use it had to be put on hold. After being upset that i couldnt do my yoga i discovered i CAN do this so far its helped heal me by getting me moving but not aggravating the healing muscles from my injury. i throughly enjoy it and look forward to the time i set aside to do this- The qi gong section is 18 minutes if i can stand injured for 18 minutes and do this i recommended it to my friends and family as well. i guess i'm not as visual as the other reviewer as i just now figured out that mirror image problem they had it really hasnt mattered to me and i wouldnt give a low rating to something when its your personal preference. i have no problem following along with the excellent and detailed verbal instructions and mimicing the instructor and have spent many enjoyable sessions doing this practice and would recommend it it to anybody to include in thier workout. i feel calmer yet energized after it. still highly recommend

Good for beginners. Fast shipping and well packaged