A Tai Chi Teacher
From whom do you learn Tai Chi?
Of course the most important part of any martial art is finding the right teacher (also known as a sifu) for you. The relationship between martial arts master and student can be a complex one (having been the subject of numerous classic martial arts films) but it should always be an exchange that benefits the student. Depending on your level of dedication, you may be willing to put up with an egotistical tyrant in the hope that he will reveal the secrets of his personal skill to you one day.
It is unlikely, however, that a teacher who treats his students badly is in possession of the level of calm and insight requisite in an advanced practitioner. On the other hand, a master that will accept nothing but absolute concentration, respect and commitment during the class is undoubtedly more useful to a true student of the martial arts than a happy go lucky Mr. Nice Guy who is everybody's friend and equal.
The important things to look for in a Tai Chi teacher are wholly dependant on what you look for in your own training. Are you more or less serious, do you want to learn Tai Chi as a pastime, for health benefits or do you want to be able to attack bricks with your bare hands? As well as wanting to get fit, are you looking to meet new friends with similar interests?
The martial arts can bring all these benefits under one roof and many more that you will only discover once you start training. Any class of martial artists is built from the teacher himself and in some ways is an extension of his personality, his abilities and limitations. Perhaps the best atmosphere you can see in a martial arts class is one of dedicated practice during and friendly chit-chat once training is over. A diverse mix of people most likely means you have a welcoming, balanced teacher who has the strength of spirit to welcome any personality into his midst. An army of clones is usually a bad sign!
Check out a list of places you can train in our special section: Where to train Tai Chi Chuan in the UK