Who here has taken Tai chi? What do you think of it?
I was a Tai Chi instructor for awhile - mostly Chen and we used the modified Yang 24 as an intro. It's great for relaxation, helping older people to stay active, and things like that. I was a head instructor at a place and learned it to help rehab a training injury.
My biggest grumble is that it draws a lot of woo woo into class. People making spiritual claims and all the metaphysical stuff that has no basis in reality. Since I call bullshit on it, it makes me unmarketable to a big part of the Tai Chi demographic - people that want religion in their martial art without having to actually spar. Because of this, I'm backing away from it and starting with things that are a bit more practical and allow for relationship in the study (i.e. sparring).
In short, it's a good tool if you use it for the right things.
Did you have some question in particular?
It's amazing. "Body meditation", "movement meditation." Incredibly relaxing. Improves balance, coordination, and proxemics and kinesics, I'd reckon. Turns your body into a beautiful, moving work of sculptural art. Ultimate low-impact; great for seniors. Some of the Chinese medicine principles can seem a little woo-ey, but you can ignore that stuff if you like and the total package is still awesome. 10/10 would recommend.
Not me, but I do yoga.
@Shelton I first did yoga about 5 years ago. I was never able to take a regular class (odd work hours) and I'm lazy about working out at home. I have taken classes off an on. Then when my job spun out of control and I was working a crap ton of overtime I stopped taking classes. Now that the job is over I am going to be taking weekly classes, and since I have time I have started to get regular walks in as well.
@Shelton Cheap too!