Tai chi is more than just graceful movement—it's an ancient practice that blends energy flow, breathwork and mindfulness to support a healthy body and calm mind. If you’ve ever watched a group flowing through tai chi in perfect rhythm, you know how peaceful and powerful it can look. But what if you could not only practise it, but teach it too?
Whether you're keen to deepen your own tai chi journey or want to guide others toward better health, studying tai chi can be incredibly fulfilling.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what tai chi really is, what you can learn, and where it could take you in your career.
What is tai chi?
Tai chi (or taijiquan) is a traditional Chinese martial art rooted in the concept of yin and yang—the balancing of opposing energies. While it began as a form of self-defence, today it is widely practised as a meditative movement therapy that benefits both body and mind.
The flowing movements are performed slowly and deliberately, combining deep breathing, visualisation and awareness of posture.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, tai chi is said to support the flow of qi (life force) throughout the body's meridians, restoring harmony and preventing illness.
Benefits of tai chi
Practising tai chi regularly may offer a variety of physical and mental health benefits, including:
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Improved posture and flexibility
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Better balance and coordination
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Lowered blood pressure
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Stress reduction
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Improved focus and mental clarity
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Strengthened joints and increased bone density
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Relief from muscle tension and chronic pain
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Enhanced respiratory function (e.g. asthma)
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Support for cardiovascular health and diabetes management
It’s especially popular among older adults because of its low-impact nature, though people of all ages and fitness levels can benefit.
Career opportunities for tai chi instructors
Once certified, tai chi instructors can work in a wide range of settings. With more Australians seeking natural, movement-based therapies, demand is growing steadily.
As a qualified tai chi instructor, you might:
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Teach group classes at wellness studios, gyms or community centres
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Offer private one-on-one sessions
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Run online tai chi courses or workshops
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Lead retreats or mindfulness events
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Work in aged care homes, hospitals or rehabilitation centres
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Incorporate tai chi into allied health services or complementary therapy
Many practitioners also combine tai chi with other modalities like qigong, yoga, massage or acupuncture to offer a more holistic service.
What you’ll learn in a tai chi course
Tai chi training includes both theory and practical application. Most courses will guide you through:
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The history and philosophy of tai chi
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Foundations of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
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The role of qi and meridian flow
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Tai chi postures, forms and sequences (e.g. Yang, Wu or Sun styles)
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Breathing techniques and meditation
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Teaching methodology and class planning
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Risk management and student safety
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Anatomy and biomechanics (for safe movement)
Advanced programs may also cover martial applications and how to modify tai chi for rehabilitation or aged care.
Forms you may encounter
In your training, you’ll likely encounter forms such as:
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24-form Yang Style: The most commonly taught sequence for beginners.
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42-form Competition Style: A blend of different traditional styles.
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108-form Traditional Yang Style: A long form for more experienced practitioners.
Each form has its own rhythm, philosophy and level of complexity. Instructors are usually trained in one or more forms, depending on their course.
Who can study tai chi?
Anyone with an interest in mindful movement, natural healing or Traditional Chinese Medicine can study tai chi. There are no strict prerequisites to begin.
You may start with a short introductory course or workshop to learn the basics. If you enjoy it and want to teach, you can move on to a certificate or diploma-level instructor course.
Tai chi instructor training is suitable for:
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Yoga or Pilates teachers
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Fitness professionals
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Allied health practitioners
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Complementary medicine therapists
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Retirees or wellness enthusiasts exploring a second career
Where to study tai chi in Australia
If you’re aiming to teach professionally, it’s essential to choose a course recognised by the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS) or National Martial Arts Instructor Accreditation Scheme (NMAS).
Some well-known training providers include:
Make sure to check:
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Whether the course qualifies you to teach tai chi professionally
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Who delivers the training (their background and lineage)
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Whether it includes practical hours or supervised teaching
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If insurance and professional membership are available on completion
You can also explore tai chi training programs listed on Natural Therapy Pages.
What does a typical course involve?
Instructor training courses vary depending on the provider, but here’s what you can typically expect:
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Duration: From 6 months to 2 years
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Format: In-person, blended or fully online (with in-person assessment)
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Cost: Varies by provider; many offer payment plans
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Requirements: Usually includes practical assessments and teaching evaluations
Once you complete your training, you may need to complete continuing education each year to maintain your certification.
Wrapping it up
Whether you're drawn to tai chi for personal practice or ready to step into a teaching role, it offers a fulfilling path of movement, healing and mindfulness.
The best part? You don’t need to be a martial arts expert or fitness guru to start—just someone with patience, curiosity and a genuine interest in holistic health.
Ready to start your tai chi journey? Browse certified tai chi training programs near you and take the first step towards a more balanced, energised life.
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