The Inner Structure of Tai Chi: Mastering the Classic Forms of Tai Chi Chi Kung

Author: Mantak Chia
Publication Date: 2005
Website: http://www.universal-tao.com/

This book is a good starting place for those who want to have a better understanding of the internal aspects of Taiji. Mantak Chia discusses in great depth how one develops and circulates qi through Taiji. The book also provides step by step instruction to the original 13 postures of Taiji. Mantak Chia is internationally known, a respected healer, and teacher of Taiji, Qigong, and Daoist healing practices. Mantak Chia has published a large number of books and dvds detailing his knowledge of the internal arts in his almost 30 years of teaching. Chia has a world wide listing of certified teachers.

Overcoming Arthritis: How to Relieve Pain and Restore Mobility Through a Unique Tai Chi Program

Authors: Paul Lam and Judith Horstman
Publication Date: 2002
Website: http://www.taichiproductions.com/

This book is a good resource for anyone who suffers from Arthritis. The authors explained what arthritis is and provides information about methods to treat it. The authors give a general overview of Taiji before providing detailed instruction in the Taiji for arthritis program. Dr. Lam is well known and respected doctor. Dr Lam began suffering from arthritis in his twenties and decided to learn Taiji as a way to treat it. As a result he developed a 12-step Taiji program to help relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness. Dr. Lam has also developed Taiji programs for diabetes, osteoporosis, back pain, beginners, work, and kids. People who are interested can either learn from him or his certified teachers. The certified teachers can be found at his website. Dr. Lam has also published a number of Taiji books, dvds, and cds.

The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan: A Comprehensive Guide to the Principles and Practice

Author: Wong Kiew Kit
Publication Date: 2002
Website: http://www.shaolin.org/

This book is a great introduction to Taiji. Wong Kiew Kit provides information on Taiji history, philosophy, form practice, meditation and martial skills. The author gives basic information about a wide variety of Taiji styles. Wong Kiew Kit is a well known Shaolin monk. He is a master of Taiji, Qigong, and a number of martial arts. Wong Kiew Kit has published several books and has a fairly extensive website.

Tai Chi: Health for Life

Author: Bruce Frantzis
Publication Date: 2006
Website: http://www.energyarts.com/

This book is a great introduction to Taiji and its health benefits. Frantzis covers Taiji basics such as what Taiji is, information about the different styles, choosing a teacher, benefits for different groups of people, and how Taiji improves health and longevity. The author also discusses what beginners to advanced students can expect during their training. Bruce Frantzis is a well known Taiji teacher. He has published a number of books and dvds on Taiji, Qigong, other internal martial arts, and Daoist meditational practices. Frantzis’ website includes blogs, video clips on Taiji, information about training, and a list of certified teachers.

Old Frame Chen Family Taijiquan

Author: Mark Chen
Publication Date: 2004
Website: http://www.chen.com/index.html

This book is a good introduction to Chen style and one of its older routines. Chen provides a good introduction to the theory and history of Chen Taiji. The book covers the breakdown of a number of the exercises in the routine, basic hand and foot techniques, meditation, and martial applications. Mark Chen is a 20th generation master of Chen family Taiji and a disciple of grandmaster Chen Qingzhou. Chen is a senior instructor in the Chen Qingzhou Martial Arts Association and the public relations director for the National Neigong Research Society.

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tai Chi and Qigong: Illustrated

Author: Bill Douglas
Publication Date: 2005
Website: http://www.smartaichi.com/

This book provides an excellent introduction to Taiji. Douglas provides information about why should one practice Taiji, about finding a class, what to expect in class. The author discusses the history, theory, and health benefits of Taiji. Douglas presents instruction in how to do a Yang style form in the book and has over 300 illustrations. The book comes with a dvd with Douglas demonstrating how to do the forms. Douglas is a well know Taiji and Qigong teacher. He is the founder of the World Tai Chi and Qigong Day. World Tai Chi and Qigong Day is a day that celebrates and promotes Taiji and Qigong.

Tai Chi for Staying Young: The Gentle Way to Health and Well-Being

Author: Lam Kam-Chuen
Publication Date: 2004
Website: http://www.lamkamchuen.com/

This book provides an excellent overview of how Taiji can be used as a health/fitness program for any one of any fitness level. The author’s program would be beneficial for those who would like to increase cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and balance. Lam Kam-Chuen is an internationally known Taiji and Qigong teacher. He is also a respected healer. Lam Kam-Chuen website provides information on the various arts and classes he teaches. He also has a list of disciples and certified teachers.

The Theory and Practice of Taiji Qigong

Author: Chris Jarmey
Publication Date: 2005
Website: http://en.wordpress.com/tag/chris-jarmey/

This book provides an excellent overview of Taiji Qigong. It is a reference guide that is suitable for practitioners of any skill level. Jarmey covers topics such as breathing techniques, the mechanics of the Taiji forms, and the theories and principles of qigong. Jarmey was a well known Taiji and Qigong teacher. He was also a respected physiotherapist and healer. Chris Jarmey passed away in 2008. The website provided is a blog about Chris Jarmey.