Complete Tai Chi Chuan

by Dan Docherty

Complete Tai Chi Chuan is the first book in English to deal extensively with the concepts of "inside the door" training and the inner art, including therapeutic and martial aspects of Taoist internal alchemy. Drawing on original historical research, the author identifies the links between the art and Chinese philosophy. Fully illustrated throughout, the book includes history, theory, and philosophy; hand form; practical training; and working with weapons and competition.

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1997

Reviews

[Dan Charnas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent coverage of all facets of T'ai Chi Chuan, including its history. The author has been a high-level practitioner of the martial arts aspect, and he emphasizes the importance of acknowledging that T'ai Chi was not created simply for exercise and wellness. As a beginner, I find it helpful in studying and practicing the form to understand the intended purpose of the movements - warding off, striking, kicking, etc.
Mr. Docherty has done well to condense and clarify centuries of confusing literature within less than 200 pages.
I also appreciated that Mr. Docherty debunked much about the aura of mysticism surrounding the art as well as criticizing the tendency to idolize some of the famous teachers. He comes off as a no-BS/straight-shooter - especially so in the last few chapters - and the result is believability. There is good reference material here on terminology, historical events, and an extensive bibliography. A keeper.

[Alex Delogu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was looking for a history of the art and was not disappointed by this books short but detailed account of a confusing history. It's also got a decent introduction to the philosophy of Tai Chi and it's religious origins, the long form and some other useful bits.