question

[Scorpius]

ok i train in Tae Kwon Do for many many years, but when i met the wife 12 yrs ago i found out eventually that i couldnt do both .. Been back and forth to TKD a few times but as of recentlyi have ahd back and neck problems which kinda rule it out. So i was thinking along the lines of Tai Chi , seems rather sedate and i might be able to manage it in my mangled body. :)
So anyone here study it and if so what is it like ?

[Lungboy]

I've been meaning to find a good teacher for years now. I believe Hamster on these forums does Tai Chi. There are a few different styles around. Try and find one that teaches Fa Jin. These are explosive, attacking movements. Some styles only teach the softer techniques, but the whole system is supposed to be a balance between the softer and the harder stuff. Leaving out the Fa Jin essentially makes the rest rather meaningless.

Where in the country are you?

[Scorpius]

Lancashire.. :) Preston

[Lungboy]

Ah, was going to mention a place in London i have heard good things about, but as you aren't from the south east there isn't much point.

[ProfLiebstrom]

i think pretty much all martial arts will involve you using your back including tai chi so you might not even be able to do that

[Lungboy]

Tai Chi is far more flowing and gentle though. I'd imagine if done correctly it would have great benefit for a dodgy back.

[Minty]

Lancashire.. :) Preston

Whereabouts?

Theres a martial arts academy on Blackpool Road across from the Toyota dealership (Just down the road from Moor Park and Deepdale Stadium) I have to admit, Im not sure of all the styles they do, but there is a reasonable list to choose from. Might be worth checking out.

And gotta fully agree with Lungers. Tai Chi will greatly improve your backs strength and reduce a large amount of pain. I was diagnosed as having Lumbaygo (spelling?) at the age of 15. Yes thats right, old mans disease at 15. However, Ive taken up martial arts and weightlifting, and I dont feel any pain any more. I run 2 miles 3 times a week, do various squat thrusts and the like on several occassions. I dont feel any pain any more, unless I overdo it.

[Scorpius]

that place is literaly around the corner from me , never thought of trying it .. :oops:

[Minty]

SHould check it out. I worked with someone that had been using the place for about 12 years. He was a shit hot kickboxer. Incredibly fit, and with abs like rocks. I know this because he had a habit of walking round with his shirt undone and making people touch them :P

[Murasame]

if u study it and u see my sister feel free to batter her :D! shes goes uni in preston :P